Eastern Gartersnake

Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis — Colubridae

18–26 inches

IUCN

Least Concern

Federal (US)

None

Virginia

None

VWAP Tier

Not Listed

Habitat

terrestrialsemi-aquaticgrasslandwetland

Found in Virginia

Statewide

How to identify

Three yellow stripes running the length of the body — one down the center of the back, one on each side
Dark olive, brown, or black background between stripes
Slender body, 18–26 inches
Round pupils
Keeled scales

About this species

Virginia's official state snake and one of the most commonly encountered snakes in the commonwealth, the eastern gartersnake is a small to medium-sized snake found in a wide variety of habitats. They are active during the day and are frequently seen in gardens, meadows, and near water. They are completely harmless and beneficial to have around.

Often confused with

Eastern Ribbon Snake

Ribbon snakes have the same striped pattern but are more slender with a longer tail relative to body length and prefer wetter habitats

Did you know

"The eastern gartersnake is Virginia's official state snake — designated in 2016 after a successful campaign by Virginia elementary school students."

Sightings & citizen science

Help document Virginia wildlife by logging your sightings on iNaturalist. Every observation builds the conservation data that researchers and rehabbers depend on.

View Eastern Gartersnake observations on iNaturalist ↗

Found one injured?

If you've found an injured or displaced Eastern Gartersnake in Virginia, our triage guide walks you through what to do.

Triage guide →