New York
Garter Snake Species Found in New York
- Short-headed Garter Snake Thamnophis brachystoma
- Eastern Ribbon Snake Thamnophis sauritus
- Common Garter Snake Thamnophis sirtalis
Legal Status in New York
Garter snakes are not listed as endangered or threatened in New York State.
Wildlife native to New York, including the above species of garter snake, may not be kept as pets in New York. A license is required to possess, sell or propagate native wildlife for scientific, exhibition, education or propagation purposes. Wildlife may not be collected for commercial purposes. These licenses are not meant to allow for the keeping of wildlife as pets.
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).