How to Catch a Common Garter Snake

Garter snakes are part of the thamnophis genus. They have colored strips on a checkered or solid color background. Typically the stripes are red or yellow but they have the ability to change their stripe color to allow them to camouflage in their environment. Garter snakes can grow to 3 feet long and have a lifespan of around 10 years.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Catch by hand

1. Look at the snake carefully to be sure you have identified it correctly. Garter snakes can bite although they are not venomous. Many other snakes are poisonous and you do not want to try to catch them.
2. Find a long stick or the handle of a garden tool to use for catching the snake.
3. Put the stick on the ground in front of the snake's face and move it around to distract the snake. With your other hand, reach down and pick up the snake's tail. Be sure to keep your legs as far away from the snake as possible.
4. Work the stick under the front half of the snake's body and use it to lift the snake off of the ground.
5. Place the snake carefully into the container you want to hold him in or carry him to a new spot for releasing or the container you intend to keep him in.

Trap in a Container

6. Locate a large receptacle such as a trash can and lay it on its side in front of the snake. Be sure the opening to the container is facing the garter snake.
7. Use a broom or a rake to sweep the snake into the container.
8. Take a stick and touch the snakes tail. Tease him into going into the container if you do not have a broom or rake.
9. Stand the container upright to trap the snake inside. You can then transport her to a new area for releasing or transfer her into a smaller container if you intend to keep her.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are trying to catch a garter snake to keep as a pet, you might be better off purchasing one that was raised in captivity. Although not poisonous, garter snakes do bite and some people can have a reaction to their bite. Snakes that are hand raised are less likely to bite.