For full post with other finds: Field Herp Forum • View topic - Knee deep in Thamnophis atratus

Looked for T.atratus atratus and "Flame" Coast Garters this weekend in San Mateo County, CA.

Did very well.

Scanning the edge of the water, a bright flash of orange caught my eye.

"Flame-phase" Coast Gartersnake (Thamnophis elegans terrestris), San Mateo County, CA


Posed



Now for the highlight of today.

My favorite local Thamnophis species is T.atratus atratus, the Santa Cruz Gartersnake. Something about them makes them strikes me as very attractive and alluring, even more so than an SFGS.

I guess I came to the right spot today. The place was CRAWLING with huge SC Garters garthering in huge numbers amongst the reeds and chaparral. I believe that these snakes were breeding? Countless snakes ignored our presence and beelined it directly to the reeds where they chased around others. I can not describe the sight!

Some were even crossing directly in front of our feet, so I was able to secure one (quickly) for some quick pics.







What a great day! Just seeing the sheer amounts of garters in one area was a thrill. Top 10 favorite herping moments for sure!