Thinking of welcoming a garter snake into your home? These low-maintenance reptiles are great for beginners, but there are still a few key things to keep in mind. From setting up the right habitat to understanding their diet and behavior, garter snakes have unique needs that make them fascinating but slightly misunderstood pets. They’re generally friendly, quick-moving, and love to explore, which means enrichment is just as important as proper feeding. With the right care, your garter snake can thrive and become a surprisingly engaging companion.
Garter Snakes Are Surprisingly Social
Unlike many other snake species that prefer solitude, garter snakes often enjoy the company of their own kind. In the wild, they sometimes bask together in groups, especially during cooler weather. If you’re considering keeping more than one, you’ll be happy to know that garter snakes can often cohabitate peacefully, provided you give them enough space and hiding spots. However, it’s best to avoid mixing sizes, as larger snakes might bully or even eat smaller ones. Watching a group of garter snakes intertwining and interacting can be both entertaining and heartwarming. Just remember, always observe their behavior closely in shared enclosures to ensure everyone is getting along.
They Need a Secure and Spacious Enclosure
Garter snakes are escape artists! They’re slender, curious, and can squeeze through the tiniest gaps. When setting up their home, choose a tank with a tight-fitting lid—one they can’t nudge open with their noses. A 20-gallon tank is usually a good starting point for a single adult, but bigger is always better. Fill their enclosure with sturdy branches, hides, and safe plants for enrichment. The more places they have to explore and hide, the less stressed they’ll feel. Remember, a stressed snake is more likely to get sick or try to escape, so make their home a safe and stimulating haven.
Temperature and Humidity Matter
Garter snakes thrive when their environment mimics their natural habitat. That means keeping the temperature just right—a basking area around 85°F and a cooler side near 75°F. Use a reliable heat mat or lamp, but never let the enclosure get too hot, as overheating can be dangerous. Humidity is also important; aim for a moderate level, around 40-60%. Too dry, and your snake might struggle to shed. Too damp, and you could invite mold or respiratory issues. A shallow water dish helps maintain humidity and gives your snake a place to soak. Regularly check the levels with thermometers and hygrometers to ensure your garter snake stays comfortable.
Diet: More Than Just Mice
Here’s where garter snakes really stand out from other pet snakes—they aren’t strict mouse eaters! In the wild, they munch on a variety of foods: earthworms, small fish, amphibians, and even slugs. In captivity, you can offer them fish (like tilapia or salmon), earthworms, and occasionally pinkie mice. Avoid feeding them goldfish or wild-caught prey, as these can carry parasites or toxins. Offering a diverse diet helps keep your snake healthy and engaged. Watching a garter snake hunt down a wiggly worm or a small fish is both fascinating and a testament to their active, curious nature.
Handling: Gentle and Patient Wins the Day
Garter snakes are known for being more tolerant of handling than some other snakes, but they still need time to feel safe with you. Always approach your snake calmly and support its body fully when picking it up. Never grab them suddenly or by the tail, as this can frighten or injure them. Start with short, gentle sessions, and over time, your garter snake will get used to your scent and touch. Some will even seem to enjoy exploring your hands and arms! If your snake seems stressed (hissing, striking, or trying to escape), give it some space and try another day. Patience is key to building trust with these sensitive creatures.
Cleanliness Keeps Your Snake Healthy
A clean enclosure is essential for your garter snake’s well-being. Spot-clean daily to remove waste, uneaten food, or shed skin. Every few weeks, do a more thorough clean by removing all substrate and disinfecting the enclosure and accessories. Use reptile-safe cleaners and rinse everything thoroughly before replacing your snake inside. Dirty environments can lead to health issues like skin infections, parasites, or respiratory problems. Clean water should be provided at all times and changed daily. By keeping things tidy, you help your garter snake thrive and show off its vibrant colors and lively personality.
They Shed Their Skin Regularly
Shedding is a natural and fascinating process for garter snakes, but it can sometimes be stressful. Before a shed, your snake’s colors may dull and its eyes may turn cloudy or blue. During this time, your garter snake might hide more and eat less. Make sure the humidity is a bit higher to help the old skin come off easily. Provide rough surfaces, like rocks or branches, so your snake can rub against them to start the shedding process. If your snake has trouble shedding, a warm soak can help. Never pull the skin off yourself—let nature do its work. A successful shed is a sign of good health and proper care.
Garter Snakes Rarely Bite, But Watch Out for Musk
If you’re worried about getting bitten, you’ll be relieved to know that garter snakes are generally docile and rarely bite unless they feel very threatened. However, they do have a little trick up their sleeve: musking. When scared, garter snakes release a foul-smelling liquid from their cloaca as a defense mechanism. It’s harmless but can be pretty stinky! Handling your snake gently and with confidence helps minimize the chance of musking. Over time, as your snake becomes more accustomed to you, this behavior usually decreases. Consider it their quirky way of saying, “Give me a moment, I’m still getting used to you!”
Watch for Signs of Illness
Garter snakes are hardy, but they’re not invincible. Common signs of illness include refusal to eat, excessive hiding, wheezing, runny nose, or unusual lumps. Skin problems, like stuck shed or sores, also need attention. If you notice anything strange, consult a reptile veterinarian promptly. Early intervention can make all the difference. Regular check-ups, even when your snake seems healthy, are a smart idea. Remember, snakes are experts at hiding illness, so stay observant. A healthy garter snake is alert, active, and sports clear eyes and smooth, vibrant skin.
Commitment: They Can Live for Over a Decade
Many people don’t realize that garter snakes can live 10 to 15 years—or even longer! Bringing one into your home is a long-term commitment, not a short-term experiment. Over the years, you’ll watch your snake grow, adapt, and develop its own unique personality. Make sure you’re ready for this responsibility, as your garter snake will depend on you for its entire lifetime. With proper care, they can become a beloved member of your family, offering years of fascination and companionship. Before you take the plunge, ask yourself: Are you ready for a decade or more of slithery friendship?
Garter snakes might be small, but they come with big personality and specific needs. Once you understand their care—from habitat to handling—you’ll find they’re actually one of the easiest and most rewarding reptile pets to own. Just a little knowledge goes a long way in keeping them healthy and active. With the right setup and routine, your garter snake can thrive for years. It’s all about creating a space where they feel safe, curious, and cared for!
Esther is from India; the heartbeat of South Asia, holding a Master’s degree in Zoology and a postgraduate diploma in Animal Welfare. Her enthusiasm for animal welfare drives her passion and dedication to working for animals, ensuring their well-being, and advocating for their rights. With a solid academic background and hands-on experience, she is committed to making a positive impact in the field of animal welfare. In her free time, she enjoys embroidery and sewing. As a Chennaite from Tamil Nadu, Esther loves Bharathanatyam, an Indian classical dance form.
