Albino Checkered Garter Snake
Checkered garter snakes are widely distributed throughout the southwest were they are rarely found far from sources of water. Rows of black squarish spots give this garter snake its checkered appearance. Lateral stripes are faint while the dorsal stripe is a bright yellow orange. Albino specimens have a lavender cast and the dorsal stripe is exceptionally bright. They are VERY pretty snakes!
Checkered garters will thrive in captivity if they are kept in well-ventilated vivaria. They are prone to skin blisters and fair poorly if excess moisture is allowed to build up. As neonates they readily feed on small rosy red minnows and will quickly take minnow scented pinks once they get enough size on them. After a very few scented meals they will begin taking unscented mice of appropriate size. I provide my garters with a diet of mice however I also rotate a few fish in about once every two weeks. I also provide trace amounts of "RepCal" and "Herpetovite" supplements every fourth feeding. These snakes have a high metabolism and should be fed at least twice a week.
These are very attractive little snakes that are great for beginners however they can be a little nervous during handling. If you plan to handle your pet often you may want to go with a less wiggly species otherwise you can't go wrong with these little guys. I don't plan to produce any of these gems in 2000 but hope to have some available in 2001. Please check back for price and availability.