\nSome years I’ve seen numerous garter snakes in the yard; I think the record is five, from many years ago. In recent years I’ve seen less – none at all some years – which has concerned me. I’ve heard that garter snakes being present is a sign of a healthy ecosystem.<\/p>\n
\nMy father, years ago, had a farm where one could encounter garter snakes easily. On long summer days they would be in the tall grass near the line between sun and shade. That way, they could move into the sun to warm up, but retreat to the shade to cool back down.<\/p>\n
\nOut in the yard, I’ve looked for snakes in similar places; this yard is much smaller than my father’s farm was. Yet, the snakes have been elusive to the point where I was beginning to fear they’d left.<\/p>\n
\nYesterday afternoon, out in the yard, I got a feeling perhaps I should go check for one, and was very happy to find one. It was at a border of sun and shade, amongst pumpkin vines and tall grass. It was very shy, and obviously fearful, so I soon left it to its business, not wanting to scare it away.<\/p>\n
\nWhen I’ve seen garter snakes in the yard, it’s seldom been at the height of summer, but rather spring, late summer, or even fall.<\/p>\n
\nThe snake I saw was likely a common garter snake (Thamnophis sirtalis<\/em>).<\/p>\n Source:<\/p>\n Fisher, Chris, et. al. Reptiles and Amphibians of Canada.<\/em> Edmonton: Lone Pine Publishing, 2007.<\/p>\nJack of Oracle Tutoring by Jack and Diane,<\/a> Campbell River, BC.\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Self-tutoring about backyard animals: the tutor mentions a welcome encounter. Some years I’ve seen numerous garter snakes in the yard; I think the record is five, from many years ago. In recent years I’ve seen less – none at all …<\/p>\n