So here’s the deal... I live in Central New York. My cousin and I went herp hunting by the local canal. We put on our boots, grabbed the nets and containers and headed out. Usually we get the usual fare: red-backed salamanders, wood toads, and various frogs (bull, green and leopard). This week we got lucky: we caught a 2.5’ snake and a gorgeous painted turtle (we released it though). Here’s where the identifying bit comes in- I have caught garter snakes before and I am familiar with what they look like, but this snake is something I’ve never seen before. It’s 2 and 1/2 feet, very gentle (can be handled), mostly black, with brown markings on its back, bright rust colored striped down its sides, round pupils, and very tiny teeth. The odd bit is it sprays musk like a garter. Currently my cousin (experienced with herps), who I mentioned earlier is taking care of it because my mom wouldn’t let the thing in the house.
2006-08-26 11:40:16 · 6 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pets ➔ Reptiles
I'm going with Preacher this time- Northern Water snake... except those around here are NOT gentle! This is one of our snappiest species!
However... the more easterly populations of some common garter snakes are brown, when I am used to the midwest green versions. You might have just found one of the brown variations!
A photo would help, and this site may help as well: http://www.esf.edu/PUBPROG/brochure/snakes/snakes.htm
2006-08-28 06:56:07 · answer #1 · answered by Madkins007 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Common Northern Water Snake. harmless, but will scent you when annoyed. They are difficult to keep as pets because they defecate watery stool in their water. Their enclosure MUST have a large water tray & it is almost impossible to keep their cage clean because of their habit of eating & pooping in their water
2006-08-27 04:43:39 · answer #2 · answered by preacher55 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
sounds like it might have been a pet that someone let loose that didnt want it no more. sounds like a Scarlet King Snake but check out this link to see if it might match any description
http://www.snakesandfrogs.com/scra/ident/pattern.htm
2006-08-26 12:03:41 · answer #3 · answered by wholesale_priced 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think it is a common garden snake. I might not be right.
2006-08-26 11:50:31 · answer #4 · answered by Russianator 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
you might have a water snake
2006-08-26 16:04:02 · answer #5 · answered by tom l 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i would need a picture
2006-08-26 15:32:01 · answer #6 · answered by BA 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋