I live about 5min away from one of the last remaining habitats that tetratanae are still found.I walk this trail at least 4-5 times a week and have not seen any for the last 20yrs.about 3yrs ago some biologists started doing work on the habitat,adding a pond and laying a few boards for their own observations.three days ago while walking back from fishing I happened to look at the edge of the pond like always,not very suprised to see a snake at the waters edge drinking.But after further examination I identified it as a S.F. garter.couldnt help myself so i did pick it up to identify sex.about a 26in. male.to say the least I was very excited.I am mainly interested in venomous herps but these animals are truly gorgeous.I released the snake immediately and went on my way.
I returned to the same spot about three hours later to go fishing again and as i crossed the path about 40yds. from the small pond a snake went darting by my feet.I dropped the fishing rod and made a diving catch,only to come up with another S.F. garter.To my amazement this was about a 28in.gorgeous female.The best part was this was a gravid female looking like she was ready to burst.hopefully there might be a chance for these snakes to make a comeback.
Thanks,John
