Eastern Plains Garter Snake

The eastern Plains garter snake is a medium-sized snake that lives in the DuPage forest preserves. It is a dark brown or black snake with yellow stripes.

• A reptile
• 18 to 26 inches long
• Lives in wetter grassy areas and woods and near streams and marshes
• Eats frogs, tadpoles, salamanders, fish, insects, earthworms and small rodents

Did You Know?

Snakes begin a long, deep sleep in the fall. Their breathing and heartbeats slow. They live off their body fat until they wake up in the spring. This is called “hibernation.” Hundreds of snakes will hibernate in one den to keep warm. This site is called a “hibernaculum.” Snakes that share dens in the DuPage forest preserves include eastern Plains and Chicago garter, smooth green, and midland brown snakes.