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Plains Gartersnake

Thamnophis radix
NON-VENOMOUS
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Map accurate as of 1/31/2024

Identification: 
  • Length: Newborn young average roughly 5.5 in, while adults average at a length of 27in.
  • ​Most easily recognized by a yellow or orange dorsal stripe that runs from head to tail. Pale stripes on the sides of the body and vertical black bars on the upper lips.
(Hammerson 1999)
​
Distribution: Plains Gartersnakes occur throughout most of the Great Plains region of Colorado at elevations primarily below 6,000 feet, though some outliers have been known to occur. (Hammerson 1999)
​
Activity: Activity occurs from as early as mid-March to as late as October or November. Plains Gartersnakes are cathemeral, as its activity will vary based on temperature and moisture. Brumation usually begins in December and lasts until February. (Hammerson 1999)

Conservation Status: Designated as a non-game species in Colorado. Plains Gartersnakes still remain locally abundant, as its populations are more resistant to natural and human pressures.

NatureServe rank: G5 (Globally Secure), S5 (State Secure).
Habitat: ​Plains Gartersnakes can be found in nearly every habitat within its elevation range, but are known to remain in the vicinity of any permanent or semipermanent body of water. (Hammerson 1999)
​
Diet: Plains Gartersnakes are generalistic, meaning that their diet can change based on the circumstances. They are known to eat invertebrates, amphibians (and their larvae), reptiles, mammals, and other animals. (Hammerson 1999)
​
Defense: Defenses from predation include striking, repeated biting, and secretions from the cloacal sacs which are designed to make the snake less appealing. (Hammerson 1999)
​

Natural Predators: In Colorado, known predators of this species include snakes, American Bullfrogs, raptors, and other birds. ​(Hammerson 1999)
​


Cited & Additional Resources
Hammerson G. A. 1999. Amphibians and Reptiles in Colorado. University Press Colorado, Boulder.

Account compiled by: Hayden Lewis
Reviewed by: 
Last Updated: 1/24/2023 by Anthony Berardi
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Visit our parent organization, Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (PARC), for more information on national conservation efforts and other regional groups.
​This website and any products posted herein are  officially recognized by the national entity, Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (PARC), as the efforts of an approved PARC chapter.


  • Home
  • About
  • Steering Committee 2024
    • Committee Member Details
  • Events
    • Meetings >
      • 2023 Annual Meeting
      • 2024 Annual Meeting
      • 2025 Annual Meeting
    • Photo Contest
    • Field Trips >
      • 2021 Field Trips >
        • 2021 Southeastern Colorado Bash
      • Field Trips 2015
      • Field Trips 2014
      • Field Trips 2013
      • Field Trips 2012
  • Species
    • Amphibians
    • Turtles
    • Snakes
    • Lizards
  • Contact Us
  • DONATE