Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I caught this fellow today. I've been wanting an Eastern Garter for some time and this specimen is a perfect size, and is just gorgeous. I currently have a Corn Snake and an Eastern King Snake. I'm going to let this guy acclimate to his new viv before I attempt to feed him. Any suggestions on how long I should wait, and what I should offer as a first meal? If I can't get him to feed in a reasonable amount of time, I'm going to release him where I caught him.

Thats a cool looking eastern.Whats the locality?

WOW ... that is truly a gorgeous snake !! I see no harm in offering food today. I would just give him 'space' when feeding so as not make him too nervous.

Congrats !!
mt

oh ... and rosey reds (feeder fish) available in pet stores. They're in the minnow family. I would try scenting a f/t pink with some fish and offer that as well. I had a larger WC take f/t fuzzies with no scenting ... garters are such good eaters )

best of luck ...
mt

Thanks for the input. The locale is southeastern Virginia.

I agree with the others who posted - that's one nice looking snake. I've seen easterns with a "checkered" pattern, but never one quite as spotted as that one.

I'd recommend worms for feeding. A snake will be less hesitant about eating something it can quickly catch and consume.

Tim

very nice
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Dan S.
Crotalus & Company
Wisconsin Reptile Community
Hybrid Herps