![]() The ventral coloration is yellow or buff. Distinct red blotches are present on the sides of the body just above the lateral stripes. In eastern Washington, common gartersnakes are black bodied with bright yellow dorsal and lateral stripes. Occasionally, extra labial scales are present. Common gartersnakes usually have 19 scales at mid-body, 7 upper labial scales and 10 lower labial scales. The scales are keeled.Äifferences in scale counts are important for distinguishing the three garter snakes in Washington. Adults can reach 54 inches total length but individuals in Washington are shorter. The lateral or dorsal stripes may be absent in some individuals. Typically, three stripes are present a thin dorsal (topside) stripe on the middle of the back and two thin lateral (side) stripes on the second and third dorsal scale rows. It has a dorsal pattern that is the most variable of any of the gartersnake species ( Thamnophis species). The common gartersnake is a medium-sized dark snake with stripes. Although little appreciated, these are beautiful snakes with many stunning color variations. All traits, especially scale counts, color and pattern, must be examined to correctly identify a garter snake to species. ![]() Washington’s three gartersnake species (common, northwestern and terrestrial) are similar in general appearance and have coloration and patterns that vary regionally and by individual. ![]() Monofilament recovery and recycling program. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |