Since I live in a pretty rural area in Oregon I took it upon myself to go out hiking in Baskett Slough National Wildlife Reserve and see if I could run into some reptiles. My first two experiences were nice and always happened just as I was getting ready to pack up and leave.

I'm pretty sure these are Red Spotted Garter snakes but if I am wrong please correct me. These are literally the first snakes I've encountered in the wild so I'm pretty darn happy, I use to live in the Suburbs of Southern California and never seen snakes but plenty of lizards though.
*these garters are different, first one was spotted in a forested area. While the larger one was spotted basking on the side of the road as I drove home.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/99448155@N05/14735986007/
https://www.flickr.com/photos/99448155@N05/14922559155/

Really love these little guys, would love to have one as their colors are just so appealing. <3