What Do Garter Snakes Eat?

What Is A Garter Snake?

Garter snakes, also known as garden snakes, are some of the most common and widespread snakes in North America. They usually grow to be between 18 and 26 inches long, and they have a light-colored stripe down the length of their back. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, though they are usually brown or green. Garter snakes are generally very docile and non-venomous.

What Do Garter Snakes Eat?

Garter snakes are carnivorous and will eat a variety of small animals, including insects, worms, slugs, small frogs and lizards. They also sometimes eat eggs, fish, and small rodents. Garter snakes typically hunt for their prey during the day and at night, depending on the species and location. When hunting, they use their keen sense of smell to locate their prey.

Do Garter Snakes Eat Plants?

No, garter snakes do not eat plants. They are strictly carnivorous and only eat small animals. If you have garter snakes in your garden, they will not eat any of your plants.

How Much Should I Feed My Garter Snake?

Garter snakes should be fed a diet of small animals appropriate to their size. Juveniles should be fed smaller prey such as worms and insects, while adults can eat larger prey such as frogs and lizards. The amount of food offered should be appropriate for the size of the snake, and should not exceed what the snake can eat in one sitting. Overfeeding can lead to health complications.

How Often Should I Feed My Garter Snake?

Garter snakes should be fed once every 5 to 7 days. Juveniles should be fed more frequently, while adults can be fed less often. It's important to not overfeed your garter snake, as this can lead to health complications. It's also important to provide fresh, clean water for your garter snake every day.

What Should I Avoid Feeding My Garter Snake?

It's important to avoid feeding your garter snake any animals that are too large for it to consume. This can include large frogs, rodents, or birds. You should also avoid feeding your garter snake any wild-caught prey, as this can introduce parasites or disease into your snake's environment. It's also important to avoid feeding your garter snake any insects or worms treated with pesticides.

Conclusion

Garter snakes are carnivorous and need to be fed a diet of small animals appropriate to their size. They should be fed once every 5 to 7 days, and it's important to not overfeed them or feed them any wild-caught prey. Knowing what to feed your garter snake is important for its health and well-being.

Sources

https://www.thesprucepets.com/garter-snake-care-1238302

https://www.thesprucepets.com/feeding-your-garter-snake-1238304