Alternate Name(s):

Venom Status:

Non Venomous

Characteristics:

Adult at 30 to 45”. This robust garter snake is black above, but has a broad prominent yellowish to pale-blue dorsal stripe. From dorsal stripe downward: yellow or blue, black, red. black, blue, black, then bluish ventrals. Head red. Keeled scales in 19 rows. Ovoviviparous. Neonates similar.

Unique Features:

Yellow or blue dorsal stripe and red.

Habitat and Diet:

Inhabits grasslands, meadows, wetlands, sandy areas with rocks, and edge situations. Particularly fond of wetlands. Prey includes amphibians, lizards, minnows, and worms.

Geographic Range:

CA