The Reptiles and Amphibians of Utah

Description: Brown, grayish-brown, olive, dark brown, or black base color. A distinct yellow or orange middorsal stripe and cream or yellow lateral stripes. Two distinct large black blotches on the back of the neck. The head can be lighter in color than the body. Alternating black spots run down the body in a checkered pattern between the middorsal and lateral stripes. These spots are generally more visible in juveniles. The space between the scales can have blue, green, or yellow coloration. This snake has keeled scales. It has 7 to 8 upper labial (lip) scales with black vertical markings. 

Size: A medium-sized snake averaging 1.5 to 2.5 feet in length. 

Range and Habitat: This snake has been documented in Grand and San Juan Counties in isolated pockets. It prefers riparian rocky canyons and corridors with semipermanent to permanent water sources. It can be found below 6,000 feet in elevation. 

Similar Species: The Wandering Garter Snake lacks a distinct middorsal stripe and neck blotching. The Valley Garter Snake has red sides and does not overlap with the Black-necked Garter Snake in range.