Getting a glimpse of a snake, or a root, or anything remotely snake like, from along the edge of the trail always makes one do that quick double take. This time it was in fact a Common Garter snake nestled down in a small patch of snake grass (or horsetail if you prefer) that elicited the snake-double take. Although the Garter snake is one of the most common and widespread reptiles in our area and by no means are we snake-lovers it is always nice to see one slither away as we walk the trails. I wonder if their numbers have decreased with the decline of amphibians as this was reported to be their main food source or they have shifted dietary habits?
Our garters eat mostly insects, I think, as we don’t have many amphibians.
I think ours eat insects as well but I have noticed them lurking about by a pond quite a bit this summer. Perhaps the small frogs or toads are on the menu as well.
And I am not sure where there are abundant amphibians any more these day.
😦