Caught a wild garter!

[aSnakeLovinBabe]

I just caught a wild garter snake on a shrub in my yard. It's fairly small, probably 6 inches long....and wasn't too aggressive either. I've put him/her in a container that I had pre-setup for hatchling corns. I'd like to take some pictures of it once it calms down....and perhaps keep it for a bit?

Or is that really cruel? Garters are a common species around here (and everywhere )....and I have the proper enclosure, time, and feeders.

If I do keep this guy around for a bit- any advice??


(Ohh and I noticed half of it's mouth doesn't close with a tight seal...possible old injury?)

to answer your questions, provided it's legal to keep it, which it most likely is but check just in case, no it isn't cruel. Garter snakes adjust to the captive life VERY quickly, usually in less than a week I can get one eating from my hands. I would definitely move it into a large cage though, they don't like being cooped up. A 10 gallon tank will comfortably house a male for his entire life, a female usually will get too large, but that really depends on the subspecies you have. They like lots of things to climb on, basking lights and of course hideys! Especially with WC's, the basking light can actually make the difference as to whether the snake eats or not for you! They really love light during the day (go figure, huh?!) Also provide a water bowl that is large enough for him to take a little swim as, thamnophis are semi aquatic. Make sure if you are feeding any fish that it's a thiaminase free species for the health of your snake, this means no goldfish, no catfish!!! Most species generally will take a worm as their first meal with ease, often on the same day as capture, once they are calmed down. They are very easy to convert to f/t pinkies, if the snake already won't take them straight away. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask!!! I can always help and I have more garters than most people know even exist!!! They are not just the little brown snake you see in your backyard... they are so much more!!