Mexican Garter Snake
Thamnophis eques
A rather large species of garter snake, reaching 44 inches in length. It has keeled scales, large eyes with round pupils, and a defined neck. It is generally dark green o…
How to identify
A rather large species of garter snake, reaching 44 inches in length. It has keeled scales, large eyes with round pupils, and a defined neck. It is generally dark green or brown with a distinct cream-colored stripe down the center of its back to the tip of its tail. This central stripe is sometimes bordered by thin black lines. Each side is marked with a less defined lateral cream line. There are alternating rows of dark blotches in the spaces between the light lines. Its ventrum is pale and unmarked, and it has thin vertical dark bars between the scales of the upper lip.
Range
Ranges from central and southeastern Arizona through most of central Mexico. Also including a small area in southwestern New Mexico.
Habitat
This semi-aquatic species is found in and around streams and rivers in desert scrublands, semidesert grasslands, and woodland habitats.
Variations
Dark background color ranges from medium to dark brown, reddish brown, or medium to dark olive green.
Similar species
Similar species that may overlap in range would include the black-necked garter snake (*Thamnophis cyrtopsis*), western terrestrial garter snake (*Thamnophis elegans*), and checkered garter snake (*Thamnophis marcianus*).
Name and etymology
Eques: Latin for knight or horseman.
At a glance
Range
Ranges from central and southeastern Arizona through most of central Mexico. Also including a small area in southwestern New…
Habitat
This semi-aquatic species is found in and around streams and rivers in desert scrublands, semidesert grasslands, and woodland…
Guide
Reptiles and Amphibians of North America
Range map
Approximate range. © Mapbox © OpenStreetMap