Northwestern Garter Snake
Thamnophis ordinoides
A small to medium sized snake averaging 13-38 inches in length. It has mildly keeled, matte scales, and it is extremely variable in coloration and pattern. In general, th…
How to identify
A small to medium sized snake averaging 13-38 inches in length. It has mildly keeled, matte scales, and it is extremely variable in coloration and pattern. In general, they have a distinct light dorsal stripe and 2 lateral stripes on a darker background. They may be solid or have a checkered pattern between the stripes. The top of its head is generally dark, with lighter coloration beneath the eyes around the mouth. Ventrum is pale and unmarked. It has a narrow head and undefined neck.
Range
Southwestern British Columbia southward through coastal Washington and Oregon and northwestern California.
Habitat
Most often found living in meadows along the edges of woodlands. It also occurs in logged areas, abandoned properties, and suburban backyards. It likes to hide under thick vegetation, boards, or moist ground debris.
Variations
Background coloration can be tan, brown, olive, dark green, burgundy, grey, or black. Stripes can be cream, orange, yellow, red, blue, or green. Checkered pattern or spots are typically black.
Similar species
Most likely to be misidentified as the common garter snake (*Thamnophis sirtalis*), western terrestrial garter snake (*Thamnophis elegans*), or aquatic garter snake (*Thamnophis atratus*).
Name and etymology
Ordinoides: Similar to T. ordinatus, the original species name for T. sirtalis.
At a glance
Range
Southwestern British Columbia southward through coastal Washington and Oregon and northwestern California.
Habitat
Most often found living in meadows along the edges of woodlands. It also occurs in logged areas, abandoned properties, and su…
Guide
Reptiles and Amphibians of North America
Range map
Approximate range. © Mapbox © OpenStreetMap