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[ProXimuS]

I can't tell whether it's infernalis or tetrataenia?
I'm still trying to learn and quiz myself but this one is stumping me:confused:

[Invisible Snake]

It is a Tetrataenia aka San Francisco Garter Snake.

[mikem]

tetrataenia :cool:

[guidofatherof5]

Thamnophis sirtalis tetrataenia (San Francisco garter)

[ProXimuS]

Awesome! That's what I was thinking, because I didn't see those almost checkered black markings on the red areas that the infernalis seem to have, but since he's curled up I wasn't sure.
I've decided the infernalis and tetrataenia are two of my favorites so far:D

Thanks guys :)

[guidofatherof5]

Awesome! That's what I was thinking, because I didn't see those almost checkered black markings on the red areas that the infernalis seem to have, but since he's curled up I wasn't sure.
I've decided the infernalis and tetrataenia are two of my favorites so far:D

Thanks guys :)

Join the crowd.:D

[ProXimuS]

Is it true the tetrataenia are endangered and illegal to own?:(

[ssssnakeluvr]

In the United States it is. Back in the 70's a legally acquired group was shipped to Europe. They have been reproducing since then. They can breed and sell them, just not to us over here in the states. they may have the holy grail of garters over there....but we have garters of all types in our back yards :cool:

[kibakiba]

Yes, unless you're outside of the US. They seem to be extremely inbred, though.

[ProXimuS]

Thats a shame....I guess I will have to admire them through pictures, and one day maybe see one in the wild. I have an uncle in San Francisco, now I would have two reasons to go visit;)

And Don I like your outlook....we do have many awesome garters that occurr in our country naturally.:D

[kibakiba]

I believe it's also illegal to desturb them in the wild.

[ProXimuS]

I'll just have to hope for a glimpse of one:)

[guidofatherof5]

I believe it's also illegal to desturb them in the wild.

It is.

[thamneil]

It is illegal to observe tetrataenia in the wild? I cant imagine there would be a problem unless you are damaging the habitat or animals. California herps has a whole page of images taken of them...

[guidofatherof5]

Observe/photograph but not disturb/harass.

[thamneil]

So you cannot handle them or position them for photos?

[guidofatherof5]

So you cannot handle them or position them for photos?

That would be "disturb" from what I understand.

[Invisible Snake]

You can handle them as long as you don't do any harm to the snake.

[guidofatherof5]

I will try to verify this one way or the other.

[guidofatherof5]

I have a call into the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Law Enforcement office in Sacramento.
Had to leave a message but hope I will get a call back soon.
916-414-6660.


I did speak to a CA. warden who wasn't able to answer the question but directed me to the USFWS.

[guidofatherof5]

Here's what I have found out from the USFWS (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service) office.
They directed me to the following PDF which explains much of the 1973 Endangered Species Act (ESA).
On the first page on the right side you will see the definition of "Take"
I think it clearly implies you can not hold them or even attempt to hold them.
http://www.fws.gov/endangered/esa-library/pdf/ESA_basics.pdf
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/ESA1.jpg