Common Gartersnake (Lampropetis getula)

• Length: 20″-48″
• Weight: .5 ounces – 1 pounds
• Diet: Carnivorous, eating amphibians, rodents, and insects.
• Breeding: Starts in March through July.
• Gestation: 60-90 Days.
• Reproduction: 12-40 young appearing starting July through October.
• Habitat: Urban areas with the availability of food water and shelter, drainage ditches, under sheds, culverts, and dense green spaces. Common around urban dwellings.
• Legal Status: Common throughout North Carolina, and under no protection. It is illegal to harm, capture, or remove from the wild.
• Other Names: Garden Snake or striped snake.
• Interesting Facts: The common garter snake is one of the most common snakes found around human dwellings. They can be found in large numbers, and commonly found around homes. To thwart a perceived threat, they will excrete a foul smelling fluid out of their anal gland.

The common gartersnake, often referred to as the garden snake, is the most common snake found around homes in North Carolina. They are commonly found in large numbers, and will utilize foundation openings to gain access under a home. The largest threat this snake will cause, is the injury you may receive if you trip while running away.

As a defense mechanism, the common gartersnake will puff itself out, or make itself appear larger than it is. They can grow up to 4 feet in length, but most of the time will be found much smaller. They are found throughout the entire State of North Carolina. Common gartersnakes will strike if too close or agitated, so it is best to keep your distance. Common gartersnakes will often feed on amphibians, rodents, and other insects and can be found with stripes or without.