Do garters need to hibernate or is that just for the ones in the wild?

[charliegirl]

I am a new garter owner (1 Nebraska Albino & 1 Florida Blue). My breeder's site give instructions on what to do for hibernation mode... but I am wondering if it is even necessary? They hibernate because of the natural decline in temperature due to the changing seasons, correct? With regulated temperatures in their enclosure, should I hibernate them every year?

[adamanteus]

Hi Tami, and welcome to the forum.:)
Hibernation isn't essential, but it is advisable I think. It is of course a natural part of their yearly cycle. Some people do it, others don't. You can sometimes find that even if you keep the temperatures up, your snake may go on 'hunger strike' anyway.

[Snake lover 3-25]

only if they either stop feeding on their own or if you are planning to breed:D

[Garter_Gertie]

Welcome, Charliegirl!

Your snakes will go into a semi-hibernation on their own, due to the shortening of the days, beginning around/about September/October. You'll know as they become lethargic and will refuse food. You may wish to continue offering food weekly - we do at the park - but don't be surprised if it's refused. They know better than we do not to eat so the food doesn't rot in them.

'Round about Feb/March - maybe April - things will pick up again, gradually. Again, don't be surprised if food's taken one week but not again for two, three weeks or so.

Let your snakes tell you.

Glad you found us and nice to have you here!

[crzy_kevo]

welcome to the forum tami

[anji1971]

Hello, and welcome!:)

[Stefan-A]

Welcome aboard, Tami. :)

[Sid]

Welcome to a great forum.

[infernalis]

Welcome to this most awesome forum.....


Our garters are active and eating year round.

[jitami]

Welcome Tami :)

[Snake lover 3-25]

wow how many Tamis are there!!!!! :D:D

[jitami]

Way too many, but ever since I heard that my parents almost named me Bambi I don't complain! Tami's a GREAT name! :P

[charliegirl]

Thank you SO much for the advice and warm wishes everyone! Much appreciated! =)

[charliegirl]

Thanks everyone SO much for the advice & the warm welcome! Much appreciated! This is an excellent forum full of nice, friendly people, I love it! =)

(Didn't know Tami was a common name! It certainly isn't where I live (Washington State) & the ones that are here, usually spell their name Tammy.)

[Snake lover 3-25]

lol wow good thing they changed their minds!!!! too funny!!!:D