Kenneth L. Krysko photo.
Eastern Garter Snake, Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis
Eastern garter snakes are found in Fort Matanzas National Monument's live oak hammock and slash pine and red bay woodlands. The garter snake is easily identified by the two rows of alternating dark spots down each side and the yellow, greenish or bluish longitudinal stripes down the middle of its back and along each side. Though harmless, it defends itself by biting and smearing its tormentor with smelly musk. It feeds on frogs and toads and soft-bodied invertebrates it finds in the moist leaf litter.
