Eastern Garter Snakes Along the Trails

A walk along the lookout trail may result in an Eastern Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis) sighting as they begin to emerge from their winter dormancy.

Easily disguised among the leaf litter, these inconspicuous snakes are among the most common here at Hawk Mountain. The olive-yellow and brown stripes easily disappear in the forest floor, an important evolutionary trait that helps them avoid predation. Garter snakes will begin coming out of a hibernation-like state called brumation in early spring to begin the breeding season, which typically lasts from March to early May. This is when they are most active, and visitors may catch a glimpse as they move about.

Though non-venomous, we highly recommend visitors to give ALL snakes their space—bites may result in infection.

Photo by Bill Moses.