New to Snakes in General

[kmreese]

Welcome! You'll like it here and will meet a great bunch of folks who are always there to help and answer questions for us new-snake-owners

[pittylova]

Thanks a bunch! I was figuring it was an Eastern Garter after doing a bit of looking online, but was still unsure. As I mentioned I always see the garters that are black/yellow like the ribbon snakes around here. I'm in southern New Hampshire. I have this little guy all set up nice. I happened to have a few extra things as I'm building a vivarium for my anoles and bought too much (of course). So he has a smaller tank (10gal) for now with reptile soil I ordered online, a fairly big water dish...he fits in no issue, a few live plants, and a hide log. He tends to hang out at the top of the plants.

I do have one question though. When I put him in the container I had when I found him he immediately regurgitated a red eft (eastern newt juvenile). I'm assuming that's not a good thing but will that have any impact on him (or her)? I did feel a bit guilty about that.

[jitami]

Not an expert, but it was probably just the stress of capturing & moving him. I wouldn't worry too much about it.

Sorry if you've already answered this, but how long have you had it and have you already fed it something else?

I'd give him a few days to a week to settle down before feeding him, but if you've already done so and he's held that meal down, just keep an eye on him. A vet visit may be in order if the problem continues, but given the circumstances I'm sure it was just the stress.

[pittylova]

I've had him about a week and he ate a guppy and toadlet within the week without any issues. I waited a couple of days before feeding because I read not to feed if they're stressed. He seems perfectly fine now.

[jitami]

Wouldn't worry too much about it then

[pittylova]

These guys tend to calm down a bit as they get older? This guy is calmer when I walk by and seems curious. But strikes as soon as I go near the cage. He got me good trying to change the water, actually took a tad bit of finger with him . Obviously not a huge amount but I do like my fingers lol! Would I be better off letting this little one go and just buying from a breeder? The adults I've caught and let go were all quite calm. Just this morning I moved one away from the road that was large (over 2 ft easy) and she just hung out on my arm for a good 10min after I was letting her go in the woods. I've never seen one this aggressive.