Thamnophis – Garter snakes
Largely nonvenomous striped North American snakes
Members of this genus come in various colors, but most have three longitudinal stripes on their bodies. They are among the most common snakes in North America, from Canada to Florida. They are often found near water and are common in suburban and urban areas with plenty of cover.
Although generally harmless, the saliva of some species contains a mild neurotoxin that causes paralysis, making small prey easier to swallow. Most of the Garter snake species are declared as Least concern by the IUCN, while four garter snake species are currently threatened. Although generally harmless, the saliva of some species contains a mild neurotoxin that causes paralysis, making small prey easier to swallow.
Species in this genus
Common garter snake
Most common, most versatile, widely distributed, and most familiar of all the North American snakes