Mexican Alpine Blotched Garter Snake
Thamnophis scalaris
A high-altitude garter snake from central Mexico's volcanic peaks, marked by a ladder-like blotched pattern rather than clean stripes.
- Venomous?
- Mildly venomous
- Adult length
- 0.4-0.7 m (16-28 in)
- Range
- High mountains of central Mexico
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Overview
The Mexican alpine blotched garter snake lives at some of the highest elevations of any garter snake, occurring on the slopes of central Mexico's volcanic peaks. Rather than the typical clean longitudinal stripes of most Thamnophis, this species shows a blotched or ladder-like dorsal pattern.
Its alpine habitat exposes it to cold temperatures and short activity seasons compared to lowland relatives.
How to identify it
- Dorsal pattern of dark blotches arranged in a ladder-like or checkered pattern rather than continuous stripes
- Grayish to olive-brown base color
- Keeled scales
- Round pupils
- Distinguished from striped garter snakes by its blotched, non-linear dorsal pattern
Habitat & range
Found on high volcanic slopes and alpine grasslands of central Mexico, often near or above the treeline.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Diurnal, active mainly during the warmest parts of the day given the cold high-altitude climate. Feeds on small vertebrates and invertebrates. Mild venom used for prey capture, not dangerous to humans. Bears live young.
Frequently asked questions
How does its pattern differ from other garter snakes?
It has a blotched, ladder-like pattern rather than the continuous stripes typical of most garter snakes.
Where does it live?
On high volcanic slopes and alpine grasslands of central Mexico.
Is it venomous to people?
No, its mild venom only affects small prey.
What challenges does its habitat present?
Cold temperatures and a short activity season at high altitude.
Mexican Alpine Blotched Garter Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Mexican Alpine Blotched Garter Snake.
