Wandering Gartersnake

Thamnophis elegans vagrans
NON-VENOMOUS

Weld County, CO - Photo by Hunter Johnson

Map accurate as of 11/15/2022

Identification:

Generally some shade of gray with black or tan spots patterned throughout most of the dorsal side
Pale lateral stripes that run most of its body length
Two black marks on the neck
Commonly have irregular black marks on the belly

(Hammerson 1999)

Distribution: In Colorado, Wandering Gartersnakes are common throughout the West Slope and Rocky Mountains, though become harder to find moving farther northeast through the plains. While generally at elevations below 11,000 feet, there have been records as high as 13,100 feet. (Hammerson, 1999)

Activity: Activity usually occurs from March through late October at lower elevations. At high elevations, emergence generally occurs later in the year as temperatures remain cooler for longer periods of time. Wandering Gartersnakes are cathemeral, meaning their activity varies based on external factors like temperature and moisture. This species is rarely seen on the surface when temperatures exceed 86°F or 30°C.

Conservation Status: Designated as a Non-Game Species in Colorado. Overall, populations of this snake appear to be stable in the state as it is not severely threatened by habitat loss and other negative factors (Hammerson, 1999).

NatureServe rank: G5 (Globally Secure), S5 (State Secure).

Habitat: Wandering Gartersnakes can be found within the vicinity of most flowing or non flowing bodies of water while within its geographic and elevation range. They may be observed in a terrestrial or aquatic state. (Hammerson, 1999)

Diet: Wandering Gartersnakes are opportunistic feeders, preying upon all varieties of vertebrates and invertebrates that can be terrestrial or aquatic. However, they seem to prefer metamorphosing or newly metamorphosed frogs and toads (Hammerson, 1999).

Defense: Defensive behaviors often include fleeing, repeated striking, biting, hiding of the head, or releasing excrement and cloacal sac secretions. (Hammerson 1999)

Natural Predators: Known predators of this snake in Colorado are red-tailed hawks and pied-billed grebes (Hammerson, 1999). However, it is safe to assume that they are similar to species in the same genus, which have also been preyed upon by other snakes and American bullfrogs.

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: 1/30/2023 by Anthony Berardi