Checkered Garter Snake
Thamnophis marcianus
A striped garter snake with a bold checkerboard pattern of dark blotches between the stripes, found across the arid Southwest.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 0.4-1.0 m (1.3-3.3 ft)
- Range
- Southwestern United States, Mexico, and Central America
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Overview
The Checkered Garter Snake is a distinctive garter snake species of the arid and semi-arid Southwest, ranging south through Mexico into Central America. It is named for the checkerboard-like pattern of alternating dark blotches along its sides.
It is more tolerant of dry habitats than many other garter snakes, often found well away from permanent water.
How to identify it
- Tan to olive background with a pale yellow dorsal stripe
- Bold checkerboard pattern of dark, squarish blotches on each side
- Keeled scales
- Round pupils
- Distinguished from other garter snakes by the strong checkered lateral pattern
Habitat & range
Found in arid grassland, desert scrub, and near ephemeral water sources across the southwestern United States, Mexico, and into Central America.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Diurnal and adaptable, foraging for amphibians, small fish, and invertebrates near temporary or permanent water. More drought-tolerant than many garter snake relatives. Bears live young.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Checkered Garter Snake venomous?
No, it is non-venomous and harmless to people.
What gives it its name?
A bold checkerboard pattern of dark blotches along its sides between the pale stripes.
Does it need permanent water?
It is more drought-tolerant than many garter snakes and can be found well away from permanent water sources.
Checkered Garter Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Checkered Garter Snake.
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