Do Garter Snakes Have Fangs
Garter snakes are a common type of snake found in North America. They belong to the genus Thamnophis, and are non-venomous.
These snakes have slender bodies, which can be 18-72 inches long, depending on the species. Their patterns and colors help them blend into their surroundings.
Garter snakes love water sources, like lakes, ponds, and streams.
These snakes are diurnal, active during the day. They feed on small animals like frogs, lizards, and mice, plus insects, earthworms, and slugs.
They catch their prey by striking with open mouths and swallowing it whole.
Uniquely, some garter snake species give live birth instead of laying eggs! The babies are born fully developed and independent.
Plus, they release a foul-smelling musk when threatened, as a defense against predators.
Anatomy of a garter snake
Garter snakes are intriguing! It’s worth knowing the details of their anatomy for understanding their behavior and survival.
They have smooth, shiny skin with overlapping scales for protection and swift movements. Their heads are long with two large eyes on either side, plus a forked tongue for gathering scent particles.
Despite what many think, they don’t have fangs; they use small teeth at the back of their mouths to grab and swallow prey.
These snakes have a developed respiratory system with lungs to take in oxygen. Plus, they have a single chambered heart to pump oxygenated blood.
Length-wise, they range from 18 to 55 inches, with females often being larger. They have slim bodies for squeezing through tight spaces.
Color-wise, they come in various shades with stripes or spots for camouflage.
What’s unusual is the secretion from the anal glands on their posterior – it serves as a defense against threats with an unpleasant smell.
Teeth of garter snakes
Do garter snakes have fangs? Garter snakes have sharp, recurved teeth, but no fangs like venomous snakes.
They use different types of teeth for different purposes – the front teeth are long and pointed to help them grab and hold prey. Since they lack venom glands and injectable fangs, these dental structures aid in catching and holding prey like frogs, fish, earthworms, and small rodents.
It’s amazing that these reptiles possess so many tiny teeth for various purposes! If you’d like to observe or handle garter snakes safely, avoid touching their mouths and keep a respectful distance.
Don’t try to remove stuck prey without expertise – seek professional help for a harmonious coexistence.
Function of garter snake fangs
Garter snakes have fangs! These slithery pals have small, needle-like teeth that serve a special purpose.
They use them to inject venom into their prey when hunting.
Unlike other venomous snakes, garter snake fangs face rearward- allowing them to grip the prey while injecting the venom.
Though their venom is not dangerous to humans, a bite can cause discomfort and swelling. Most of the time, a garter snake nip is just harmless.
Garter snake fangs vs other snake fangs
Garter snakes don’t possess venomous fangs like other snake species. Their fangs are small – between 2mm and 4mm in length.
And they’re located at the back of the jaw! Plus, their fangs are recurved, which helps them capture and keep their prey in place while they swallow it whole.
Safety precautions when encountering garter snakes
When encountering garter snakes, stay calm and avoid sudden movements. Respect their personal space.
Wear appropriate footwear. Observe from a distance. Do not harm or kill them.
Know that garter snakes are harmless creatures. They help control rodents and insects, making them valuable allies.
