Unexpected caretaker of a baby garter snake. When can he be released into the wild?

[CrimDoc]

Greetings folks,

Today I became the unexpected caretaker of a baby garter snake (perhaps 6-9" long) ... I found him in the basement of my home this afternoon!

Trouble is, my wife definitely doesn't want to share our home with a snake.

If it were spring, summer or fall, I'd simply release him outdoors ... but it's February ... in Michigan. I'm all but certain if I release him now, he'll die.

So I'm reading up on how to take care of a little snake like this for a time being.

My main question is: how warm does it have to be outside for me to be able to release him and give him a good chance for survival?

Thanks in advance,

Chris

[guidofatherof5]

It will take temps above freezing at night before a release. A photo would be great so we can ID your snake.