This is a smooth greyish-brown snake with large scales and round eyes that is found as far north as the Thompson valley. Hunting with its head held up, it feeds on lizards, snakes, frogs, birds, and bird eggs. It earned the name "Racer" because it moves very fast and is hard to catch.
The most cold-tolerant and widespread snake in BC, the Common Terrestrial Garter Snake is found in many habitats, but most often near marshes, ponds and lakes. It is a dark snake with three narrow yellowish stripes along the back and sides, often with red blotches also along the sides. Often escaping from disturbance into water, they feed on small fish and amphibians, and their larvae. They usually give birth to up to 18 live young, but are known to have as many as 35.
(Also called Pacific Tree Frog). Often bright green, sometimes pale tan, and sometimes with dark blotches, this frog is best distinguished by the black mask through the eyes. Round toe pads on their long toes help them climb and cling to smooth surfaces. This frog may be found a long way from its maternal lake, and is known to sing at any time of the year, and especially after the first fall rains.
Want to find out about species at risk in riparian areas?Go to Species at Risk
Here are some more representative species in riparian areas:
Coeur d’Alene Salamander Columbian Spotted FrogGreat Basin Spadefoot ToadLong-toed SalamanderSpotted FrogWestern Terrestrial Garter SnakeWestern ToadRed:Gopher SnakeNight SnakeNorthern Leopard FrogOregon Spotted FrogTiger SalamanderWestern Rattlesnake
Click here to return to Grasslands Communities and Habitats
home
how you can help
contact
Print This Page
Email this page