Quote Originally Posted by d_virginiana View Post
I've kind of got to disagree with Albert here... I don't think garters 'like' being held in the same way a dog or cat does, but if they aren't showing a fear response (musking, nipping, and trying to run off) I think they find us to be objects of curiosity and get something out of being handled. Their metabolisms are so much higher than most snakes that their 'seeking' behavior (the urge to move around looking for new sources of food or shelter) is above and beyond something like a ball python that might only display that behavior once every week or even longer. This makes them much more interested in new environments/decor/experiences than a lot of snakes, because in the wild the snakes that see something new and go check it out are the ones that find new food sources or hidey-holes.
Besides, stress/fear behavior in garters is usually musking and trying to get away, not staying still.

As for your original question, not trying to actively get away from you is a sign that they don't see you as a threat, but in my experience males almost never just sit still to be handled. It's not uncommon for females to just chill out on you, but my males are constantly moving no matter what. They can go to sleep on you, but it's rare and it certainly isn't happening every time you handle him.

In cases like this, it's good to do an 'alertness' test IMO. Monitor his tongue-flicking closely; if you put your hand or something new right in front of his face does he tongue flick at it like he normally would? Move your finger toward his nose and see if he moves his head away.
No matter how chill they are, garters should react to those things. If they don't you might be looking at a sick snake.
Agreed with you on handling. I think initially especially with a cage skiddish snake they are stressed when you get them out. I've had Delilah fall asleep in my hand multiple times. I think as long as you aren't moving around a ton they regard you as a nice warm perch to chill on and get some heat. Of course we can't handle forever as our body temps are a bit warmer than the warmest temps our garters prefer. Delilah will let me know when she is warm enough and start getting squirmy again (I've verified multiple times with my flir cam that she gets squirmy as soon as she hits 85*)....thats when she goes back in the viv. I've seen other's that have full grown girls sleeping on top of them while they are lying down. While I agree lots of reptiles are stressed when handled no matter what I think garters (and perhaps some others) are an exception.