Red-Sided Garter Snake

Natural Distribution: North America

Length: 20-30in (51-76cm)

Description

These snakes have been very popular amongst hobbyist, they are much more colorful than the common garter with a ground colour of olive, brown or black with two light lateral stripes and varying amounts of red on the sides.

They breed well in captivity and can have up to 30 live young. Gestation is 3-4 months.

In the wild they are found near water feeding mainly on fish, however pinkie mice and earthworms are a more popular feed stuff in captivity.

Vivarium Set Up

Size:  25x15x15in (60x38x38cm)

Design:  Terrestrial

Type:  Semi-Aquatic - not to damp as could cause skin and respiratory problems, but large water bowl should be provided.

Substrate:  Newspaper, dust-free shavings or washable carpet-type material.

Temperature: 20°C (68°F) at cool end, 30°C (86°F) at hot spot; 18°C (65°F) at night.

Winter Cooling: Hibernate in darkness for 12 weeks at 12-15°C (54-60°F) for Central and Southern species, 10°C (50°F) for Northern species

Photoperiod: 12-14 hours

Feeding

Carnivorous Fish, Earthworms, thawed Pinkie mice, special foods are available from dealers such as 'Garter Grub'.