Identification: 15 - 45 in; Two different color patterns exist: dark brown or olive with three yellowish, white or orange stripes, or tan to dark brown overlain by rows of black spots, usually with a prominent white, yellow or orange stripe down the middle of the back and a pale stripe on each side; belly pale tan to pale green with a row of black dots on each side; scales keeled.
Habits: Garter snakes are found in most habitats including backyards. They eat tadpoles, frogs, toads and earthworms.
Distribution: Most of Louisiana but known from very few localities west of the Red River and Atchafalaya Basin.
