Godman's Garter Snake
Thamnophis godmani
A small, high-elevation garter snake restricted to montane streams in Oaxaca, Mexico.
- Venomous?
- Mildly venomous
- Adult length
- 0.4-0.6 m (16-24 in)
- Range
- Highlands of Oaxaca, Mexico
Found a snake like this?
Identify any snake from a photo, free.
Overview
Godman's garter snake is a little-known species restricted to cool, high-elevation streams and cloud forest habitats in the state of Oaxaca. Its limited range and specialized habitat make it one of the more range-restricted garter snakes in Mexico.
Like many Mexican highland garter snakes, it is closely tied to clean, flowing water and is vulnerable to habitat degradation.
How to identify it
- Small, slender body with faint dorsal striping typical of garter snakes
- Dark, often brownish or olive ground color
- Keeled scales
- Round pupils
- Distinguished from other regional Thamnophis mainly by range and subtle scalation details
Habitat & range
Restricted to montane streams and cloud forest habitats in the highlands of Oaxaca, typically at cooler, higher elevations.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Diurnal and closely associated with flowing water, foraging for small amphibians and aquatic invertebrates. Mild venom aids in prey capture and is harmless to humans. Reproduces by live birth.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Godman's garter snake found?
It occurs only in highland streams of Oaxaca, Mexico.
Is it venomous to humans?
It has mild venom for subduing prey but is not dangerous to people.
What habitat does it prefer?
Cool, high-elevation montane streams and cloud forest.
What does it eat?
Small amphibians and aquatic invertebrates.
Godman's Garter Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Godman's Garter Snake.
