April 1, 1999

     Garter Snakes

Garter snakes, the most commonly seen snakes throughout Minnesota, are probably encountered more often than all other snakes combined.  They hibernate underground during the winter.  Spaces by rotting tree stumps or chipmunk and woodchuck burrows provide suitable winter dens.  We already have seen the first garter snakes out sunning this spring.  We often find clusters of snakes, out sunning and draped over each other like spaghetti.

Groups of early spring garter snakes are a random assortment of individuals who gathered in the fall when they were searching for a good place to hibernate.  As the spring sunshine warms the ground, the heat reactivates their cold-blooded bodies enough for them to crawl into the warm sunlight.  Some mate during this time.  The snake group retires to its underground hermitage when the air grows chilly toward night.

After warm weather comes, the snakes scatter in search of food, leaving the hibernating places deserted later in the spring.  They remain solitary until cool fall weather signals them to hibernate again.  Garter snakes wander about and are likely to be found on lawns and in gardens, meadows, and woods.  They prefer moist to wet habitats or places where vegetation gives them protection.