Taking in a wild garter?

[Slithers]

Hello

I'm new to this forum, but I joined mainly so I could get help and opinions on this situation. Just yesterday I found a baby garter snake sunning himself on my drive way. I was surprised to see him, considering how cold it has gotten out (it actually has lightly flurried already). I was wondering if these little guys are okay to take from the wild.
I have a five year old bearded dragon, and a four 1/2 year old red eared slider, so I know a bit about reptiles and heating, etc. I looked online a bit about the care and feeding on garters. I've since set up a spare tank with brown paper bag as a substrate, a few fake leaves and branches, a big pool for swimming, and a few hiding spots. This is only the second day I've had him, and I've already tried giving him little guppies and an earthworm I found separated into little pieces, but he doesn't seem interested in either.
So my question is, is it alright to take in a wild garter, will he do okay in captivity, am I including everything he would need, and how long should it take for him to get used to things before he would start eating?
Also the garter is only a baby, he's around 7-8 inches.

[Stefan-A]

Welcome aboard.

Most of the time, they'll do fine in captivity. It may take a while before it starts eating. Whether or not it's okay depends on your local legislation and how you view it as an ethical issue.

[adamanteus]

Hi KP, and welcome to the forum.
Most wild-caught Garters settle in to captivity quite easily, although it may take a few days before it will accept food.
Here is a link to our care sheet, which will help to get you started off.

http://www.thamnophis.com/caresheets...ake_Care_Sheet

[guidofatherof5]

Nice to have you here, Welcome. My kids just brought home another wild baby the other day(Thurs). He's yet to eat but this is normal. A week maybe more or less and it will start eating. Some take longer than others and some eat the first day or within minutes . I've had wild babies eat out of my hand moments after being caught. Makes sure the little guy has a place to hide, water and some extra heat.

[infernalis]

Welcome aboard, sounds like your off to a good start.

Your garter should settle in just fine.

Lots of friendly seasoned Garter snake fans around to help you on your way.

[anji1971]

Hello, and welcome!
You've been given good advice already. Just let him settle in and you'll most likely find him eating happily for you in no time. They really do take to captivity fairly well, with only a few exceptions.

[reptile3]

Hello & Welcome!!

[Slithers]

Thanks everyone !

[prattypus]

Well, they all started out wild at some point... I think once s/he calms down, they'll be alright.

[jitami]

Welcome Slithers We'd love to see pics of your little one when you're able to post them!