Checkered Garter Snake (California Garter Snakes)

Checkered Garter Snake

Thamnophis marcianus

Description ⁴

The checkered garter snake is typically green in color, with a distinct, black checkerboard pattern down its back. It is capable of growing to a total length of 42 in (107 cm), but 28 in (71 cm) is closer to average.

Diet ⁴

Their diets include small frogs, toads, small fish, and earthworms.

Etymology ⁴

The specific epithet, marcianus, is in honor of American Brigadier General Randolph B. Marcy, who led surveying expeditions to the frontier areas in the mid 19th century.

Habitat ⁴

They are typically found near permanent bodies of water, such as streams and ponds, but have also been found in the semidesert region of the High Plains of West Texas.