Thamnophis

Thamnophis is a genus of North American snakes commonly known as garter snakes. These snakes are widespread throughout Canada, the United States, and Mexico, inhabiting a variety of environments from forests and grasslands to marshes and suburban gardens. Garter snakes are generally small to medium-sized, with slender bodies and keeled scales. Their coloration is highly variable, often featuring longitudinal stripes that can be red, yellow, blue, or green against a darker background. Some species may also have checkered patterns.

These snakes are ovoviviparous, meaning they give birth to live young. Their diet consists primarily of amphibians, fish, earthworms, and small rodents, though some species may also consume insects. Garter snakes are generally not considered dangerous to humans, as their venom is mild and they are not prone to biting unless provoked. They play an important ecological role as both predators and prey within their respective ecosystems. Due to their adaptability and widespread distribution, many Thamnophis species are common and not of conservation concern, though some localized populations may face threats from habitat loss and pollution.