Garter Snake

Why would you consider buying a Garter Snake?

• Very friendly snake, and tolerates handling

• It is a small snake so does not require that much space

• They do not require mice, they can eat fish, worms and feeder toads, so you can watch them hunt

 

How much does it cost on a minimum?

• Pet:$20 - $300 depending on morphs

• Tank: $30 - $100

• Food: $5 - $50

• Heating : $15 - $40

 

Minimum space requirements

15 gallon for adult

 

What does it like to eat?

Earthworms, feeder amphibians, snails, feeder fish. DO NOT feed your Garter Snake red wigglers because they are toxic.

 

How much does it cost on a regular basis?

$10 - $50

 

Is it a lot of work to maintain this pet?

No, spot-clean the tank every week. Adult snakes can be fed once every 7-10 days. Immature, growing, or pregnant snakes should be fed every 4-5 days.

 

Does it get stinky

No, as long as you clean the tank every week

 

Needs in tank

• A heating system, like a heat mat

• Water bowl

• Hide-out

• Zoo-Med Repti Bark as substrate

• Thermostat

• A few branches not to tall though

 

Fun things to know

• Garter snakes actually make “friends”

• Garter snakes can play dead

• Garter snakes have neurotoxic venom, but it cannot kill humans, the bite will just swell up a little bit. But don’t worry because garter snakes rarely bite!

 

Useful tips

• Garter snakes can be kept within a temperature range of 72-85°F, with a drop to 68-70°F at night. A heat bulb should be used to create a basking spot closer to 90°F at one end of the tank. It is important to establish a thermal gradient so that the snake can regulate its body temperature.

• Garter snakes are not the best climbers

• Have a water bowl big enough for the garter snake to submerge to maintain humidity