Migration study! :D

[Zephyr]

THE FIRST DATA IS IN!!!

A real shocker; Our first snake was a baby that we dug out of decaying logs with NO DEN IN SIGHT!!! I think that younger garters may just find somewhere to chill for the winter if the den isn't close enough or they can't make it to one.

The next two snakes came as surprises; one I couldn't catch but saw beneath a log (I believe it brumated there, even more interesting because the log dipped below the water level of the area!) and the other my friend grabbed while it was out and about.

[guidofatherof5]

Very interesting. Keep us informed. Thanks

[ssssnakeluvr]

very nice!!! definitely keep us posted!

[anji1971]

Fascinating stuff, Kyle.
This study could uncover some very interesting findings! I'm really looking forward to further updates.

[drache]

very cool
the baby is particularly interesting, because from what I read, apparently they don't go to the same places as the adults to brumate

[Zephyr]

very cool
the baby is particularly interesting, because from what I read, apparently they don't go to the same places as the adults to brumate

Which is exactly what I was thinking!
And, with some more data, it might be found that one of the primary reasons garters congregate to brumate is to BREED.

[Zephyr]

Without further ado, the first two snakes of the season:

[drache]

exciting
nice photos too - thanks

[jitami]

Good stuff, Kyle. Definitely keep us posted on your progress!

[Zephyr]

Another fine day of snake hunting! We officially tallied 24 snakes!
I made a few observations and conclusions as well.(Some of which are obvious, but now we have official data. )
1. During the spring season, more males are out than females.
2. Garter snakes can brumate in both stone dens and dead logs/stumps.
3. **Female garter snakes CAN be injured during breeding frenzies!
4. **The most common size of male garter snake out-and-about at this time of year is between 18 and 21 inches long.

Some possible theories...
1. One of the main reasons garters congregate to brumate in the fall is to breed.
2. Young garter snakes do not have to brumate with the adults. Likewise, some adults do not brumate with other adults.