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Can someone help identify this snake?
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.
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
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