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Origanally was supposed to be a rescue and relocation. (Found her basking in the gutter of a very busy street right in downtown Urbana, IL) But I've never owned a garter before so I took her home. She has refused to eat anything. This is leading me to believe she is gravid. There is a short lump. Wwith other snakes the lump has always been long even fromthe beginning. But garters have live birth right? I thought maybe that was the difference Dddo garters fast during pregnancy? I know absolutely nothing about garters. Also, when she bit me, it really tore up the skin pretty bad. Much worse than even some of my big kings and pines. What is different about their teeth that causes so much damage?

Hmmm... a short lump often indicates a recent meal. That also would explain why she won't eat. But if the lump persists, it's probably something else.

Yes, garters deliver their young live - sometimes lots of 'em. And she may not want to eat if she's about to do so.

As for the teeth, theirs (garters) may be a tad longer and sharper than those of constrictors, since garter snakes rely entirely on their teeth, and not their bodies, to capture and hold their prey. In fact, their food consists largely of earthworms, frogs, tadpoles, and fish - all slippery critters that would require a good, sharp set of choppers. Water snakes are in a similar situation, and for sure, they also can tag you pretty good!

Hope this helps, Michaelb

that wouldn't keep a garter from eating now. Babies wouldn't come til around August.

My guess is that either the snake is too cold or it's not been offered the right food. In either case, you need to find a good care sheet for garters or turn it loose.

Paul Hollander

Just an update.
Snake is fine and sucking down worms like mad. Not gravid. Still plan on releasing. Thanks for the input.
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