Thoughts on the color of this wild caught garter in NE.

[jumpmaster23]

Let me know what your thoughts are on this guy. Wild caught in NE yesterday. We have previously caught a couple albinos at the same place.

[guidofatherof5]

Sweet pied. I believe it has mites. Needs quarantined far away from any other snakes. Treatment is imperative. Awesome snake. What county in NE?

[Eddie]

Very cool

[BLUESIRTALIS]

I want it!!! Very nice!

[guidofatherof5]

Snake mites are very serious. This is a special snake and needs protected. There are many treatments out there for might but it is important to do it soon. Mites can weaken a snakes immune system and cause life threatening health issues.
I only bring it up again so it is not missed.

[Albert Clark]

Amazing find! Congrats. Loads of potential there. Hope to see it do well.

[Jeff B]

Snake mites are very serious. This is a special snake and needs protected. There are many treatments out there for might but it is important to do it soon. Mites can weaken a snakes immune system and cause life threatening health issues.
I only bring it up again so it is not missed.

Steve how can you be certain the snake has mites from this photo. I see spots you probably referring to on neck but that could be dirt. Mite treatment is a last resort and should only be used when 100% certain mites are on snake.

[Jeff B]

Very cool snake by the way. Hope lots of offspring will be produced from that snake in the future. That would make a great addition to the hobby.

[guidofatherof5]

Steve how can you be certain the snake has mites from this photo. I see spots you probably referring to on neck but that could be dirt. Mite treatment is a last resort and should only be used when 100% certain mites are on snake.

I can't be certain but to say nothing might put this snake at risk and any other snakes. You are right, it could be dirt but I can't prove it. I simply want the owner to know there might be a problem. It is for the keeper to investigate(or not) my observation. I agree with you that there should be no treatment unless there are mites.
I raised a red flag because the shape, size and locations of these black spots are consistent with mites.
If I'm wrong, no harm.

[Eddie]

Mites are serious and something to check for sure. The picture is suspect. Also odd is that the pic looks like possible adult mites and the snake was just caught. Lets hope its just dirt or a bad pic.