Thamnophis rufipunctatus
Narrow-Headed Garter Snake
Protected- Do Not Harass or Collect these animals!



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Range:
Other Names: Garden Snake, Gardener Snake, Grass Snake
Description: Mostly gray, greenish gray or a gray brown. Olive gray to olive brown above, with rows of black or brown spots. Belly light white. Head is large and narrow, eyes high on head. Scales are keeled. Adults are 14"-42" in length.
Similar Species: Because of the distinctive coloration and morphology and the aquatic habitat, Narrowheads are not likely to be confused with any other snake in New Mexico.
Venom: Garters were long thought to be nonvenomous, but recent discoveries have revealed that they do in fact produce a mild neurotoxic venom. Garter snakes cannot kill humans with the small amounts of venom they produce, which is comparatively mild, and they also lack an effective means of delivering it. They do have enlarged teeth in the back of their mouth, but their gums are significantly larger. The Duvernoy's gland of garters are posterior (to the rear) of the snake's eyes. The mild venom is spread into wounds through a chewing action. - Wikipedia
Habitat: Along the shores of streams, lakes and ponds.
Behavior: Highly aquatic.
Hibernation:
Reproduction: Live bearing, has 8-18 young.
Diet: Feeds on frogs, toads, tadpoles, fish, salamanders, lizards, small mammals, earthworms, and nestlings.
Authored by: Garth Teitjen

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