Ontario
Garter Snake Species Found in Ontario
- Butler’s Garter Snake Thamnophis butleri
- Eastern Ribbon Snake Thamnophis sauritus
- Common Garter Snake Thamnophis sirtalis
Legal Status in Ontario
In Ontario, the Butler’s Garter Snake is an endangered species that may not be kept or collected without a licence from the Ministry of Natural Resources; such licences are not given out frivolously. Northern Ribbon Snakes and Common Garter Snakes may be collected under a small game hunting licence issued by the MNR. As far as I am aware there are no legal obstacles to keeping either species in captivity. The Northern Ribbon Snake is listed as a species of special concern, but at the moment that does not appear to have legal implications.
The keeping of native and exotic wildlife may be subject to local by-laws and ordinances, as well as other laws at the provincial or federal level not mentioned here. This page is not a definitive source. Please consult the authorities in your area.
For more information on the legal status of reptiles and amphibians in Canada, please visit CARCNET’s Legal Protection for Amphibians and Reptiles page.