Wisconsin
Garter Snake Species Found in Wisconsin
- Butler’s Garter Snake Thamnophis butleri
- Western Ribbon Snake Thamnophis proximus
- Plains Garter Snake Thamnophis radix
- Eastern Ribbon Snake Thamnophis sauritus
- Common Garter Snake Thamnophis sirtalis
Legal Status in Wisconsin
Both species of ribbon snake are listed as endangered. The Butler’s Garter Snake had been listed as threatened as of 1997, but it lost protected status in May 2013. Wisconsin residents may possess up to five individuals or eggs of each non-protected species; these limits do not apply to albinos and other clearly non-natural morphs. Native reptiles and amphibians may generally not be bought or sold. This is a summary; see NR16.12 and 13 of the Wisconsin Administrative Code.
The keeping of native and exotic wildlife may be subject to local by-laws and ordinances, as well as other laws at the state 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 the United States, please consult State of the Union: Legal Authority Over the Use of Native Amphibians and Reptiles in the United States, available as a free download (PDF; direct link).
Articles and News
- Wisconsin De-Lists Butler’s Garter Snake
- Butler’s Garter Snake to Lose Protected Status in Wisconsin
- Wisconsin DNR Reduces Areas for Butler’s Garter
- Developer, Snakes Swap Land for Subdivisions, Habitat
- Butler’s Garter Won’t Be De-Listed in Wisconsin
- Butler’s Garter Controversy Goes National
- Legislature Threatens to De-List Butler’s Garter
- Butler’s Garters an Obstacle to Hospital Construction
- Environmental Triage for Butler’s Garters in Wisconsin
- Highway Project Includes Ecopassages for Butler’s Garters
- Sewerage District, Construction Firm Face Charges for Disturbing Butler’s Garter Habitat