Garter snakes are a group of small to medium-sized snakes that belong to the genus Thamnophis. They are found throughout North and Central America and are known for their distinctive stripes. These snakes are generally harmless and pose minimal risk to humans. However, understanding their behavior is crucial to knowing if they might bite.
Garter Snake Characteristics
Garter snakes are characterized by their slender bodies and distinct color patterns. They often have longitudinal stripes running from head to tail. These stripes can be green, yellow, or blue, depending on the species. The common garter snake (Thamnophis sirtalis) is one of the most frequently encountered species.
Behavior of Garter Snakes
Garter snakes are known for their docile nature. They are not aggressive and typically avoid confrontation. When threatened, they may exhibit defensive behaviors such as hissing, flattening their bodies, or releasing a musky odor. These behaviors are meant to deter predators rather than cause harm.
Do Garter Snakes Bite?
Garter snakes are unlikely to bite unless they feel threatened or cornered. Bites are rare and usually occur as a defensive measure. If a garter snake does bite, it is typically a mild bite that causes minimal harm.
Reasons for Garter Snake Bites
Several factors can contribute to a garter snake bite:
Feeling Threatened: Garter snakes may bite in self-defense if they perceive a threat. This reaction is intended to ward off potential dangers rather than inflict harm. The snake’s goal is to escape rather than to attack.
Cornered: When a garter snake feels trapped with no escape route, it may resort to biting as a last defense mechanism. Being cornered can make the snake feel vulnerable, prompting a defensive response.
Handling: Handling a garter snake, especially if done without proper technique or if the snake is handled roughly, can provoke a bite. Snakes may perceive rough handling as a threat and may bite in response.
Garter Snake Bite Symptoms
The symptoms of a garter snake bite are typically mild and manageable. They include:
Redness: The area where the bite occurred may show redness and swelling. This is a common reaction and indicates the body’s response to the bite.
Pain: Mild pain or discomfort at the bite site is possible. This pain is generally not severe and can be compared to a minor scrape or sting.
Minor Bruising: Bruising might appear around the bite area. While this is not usually serious, it can be uncomfortable and may last for a few days.
See Also: Can You Survive a Rattlesnake Bite Without Treatment?
Treatment for Garter Snake Bites
Treatment for a garter snake bite is straightforward. Here are some steps to follow:
Clean the Wound: Wash the bite area with soap and water to prevent infection.
Apply Ice: Applying ice to the bite area can help reduce swelling and pain.
Monitor for Symptoms: While garter snake bites are rarely serious, monitor the bite site for any signs of infection or unusual symptoms.
Preventing Garter Snake Bites
To avoid being bitten by a garter snake, consider the following precautions:
Avoid Handling: If you encounter a garter snake in the wild, avoid handling it.
Be Cautious: When walking through areas where garter snakes are known to live, be cautious and watch where you step.
Use Protective Gear: Wear gloves and boots when working in areas with dense vegetation or tall grass where garter snakes may be present.
Conclusion
In conclusion, garter snakes are generally not aggressive and are unlikely to bite unless provoked or threatened. If a bite does occur, it is usually minor and can be treated with basic first aid. Understanding garter snake behavior and taking preventive measures can help minimize the risk of bites.
FAQs
1. Can you pick up a garter snake?
Garter snakes are relatively harmless, beneficial predators of rodents and insect pests. However, do not pick one up. If it is alarmed, it may give you a little nip (harmless but still a bite). Learn to identify snake species as well.
2. Is it safe to hold a garter snake?
Almost all garter snake subspecies are classified as harmless, according to Live Science. These tiny, innocuous snakes are generally considered to be non-venomous and won’t usually bite unless thoroughly provoked. However, if handled improperly, garter snakes are prone to discharge musk or defecate when handled.
3. How can you tell if a snake is a garter?
Often, common garter snakes have three light stripes running down their narrow bodies, many times a yellowish color with darker yellow stripes. Their head is notably larger than their neck. They are important parts of the food chain, preying on others and being prey for animals like raccoons, opossums, and birds.
4. What does a garter snake eat?
Diet. Common garter snakes typically eat earthworms, amphibians, leeches, slugs, snails, insects, crayfish, small fish and other snakes. They seem immune to the toxic skin secretions of toads and can eat them without harm. Occasionally small mammals, lizards, or baby birds are eaten as well.
5. Are garter snakes calm?
These snakes are known for their easygoing personalities. But, like all snakes, they may strike if they feel ill, stressed, or threatened. Children of all ages must be supervised by an adult while handling a snake.