Photo

This common garter snake has taken up residence near the pond and patio of the publisher's home. Garter snakes are extremely common in this part of the state and are the single most widely distributed species of reptile in North America. Garter snakes are so prolific because of their unparticular diet and adaptability to different biomes and landforms, from marshes to hillsides to drainage ditches and even vacant lots, in both dry and wet regions, with varying proximity to water and rivers. They are non-venomous, but leave a nasty, musty smell on whatever they touch. Hooftallen photo