CaresheetsGarter Snakes and Ribbon Snakes Caresheet

CAPTIVE CARE SHEET SPECIES: Garter Snakes and Ribbon Snakes

Thamnophis Spp

This group of snakes, are small, growing on average to about 3ft. They are slender and fast and will calm down with handling. If the correct guidelines are followed they are a good beginners snake.

DISTRIBUTION: North and Central America.

HOUSING: This can be virtually any type of tank provided that it is TOTALLY escape proof. 24"x 12"x 12"is adequate for a trio of adults. They appreciate greenery to explore plus lots of hiding places and things to climb on, over and through. Substrate for the tank can be large wood or bark chippings or newspaper.

Temperature: A gradient is needed, a warmed 25-30C(77-86F) and a cool end of 15-20C ( 59-68F). If half the tank has a heat mat and the other half is clear than the above is easily achieved. a light bulb over the warm end provides light and a basking area.

Water: a fairly large bowl is appreciated, as they do like to swim. If the bowl is in a hide it is used more frequently. The rest of the tank should be kept dry otherwise the snakes may develop sores and blisters.

DIET: Virtually anything that they can get in they're months. Pinkies, lancefish, Whitebait, earthworms plus tinned cat food and dog food. There is garter snake food on the market but some snakes will not eat it. If defrosted fish and earthworms are the only food source then vitamins and calcium are needed. Frozen fish contains thiamine, which destroys Vitamin B, and if extra vitamin B is not given the snake can and will die. A pinch of Nutrobal or similar over each meal will prevent this.

BREEDING: As with all snakes a pair is recommended for breeding however it is possible that you may have purchased a gravid(pregnant) female. Adult males are smaller 18-24"(45-60cm) with longer tails. Females are of a heavier build and longer 24-36"(60-90cm). There are always exceptions so probing by a professional is recommended.

Some of the subspecies will require hibernating to induce breeding in the spring. Live young are born 3-4 months after mating. These need to be removed as soon as possible as the adults may eat them. Garter snakes can have 5-80 per litter, though less than 20 is more normal.

HABITS: This is an active and inquisitive snake that will often watch you as much as you watch it. They appear to enjoy exploring greenery, toilet roll tubes, boxes and any other hides. if clean peat is put in the tank they will often burrow into it. They are expert escape artists fitting through holes that appear too small and tend to be found in the most amazing places.

AUTHOR: K. Penwill

(07/03/95)

REFERENCES: C.Mattison(1991) A-Z of Snake-Keeping,

Merehurst, London

PRAS care sheet number 10

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