Garter snakes are carnivorous and require a varied diet consisting of earthworms (specifically nightcrawlers), fish, amphibians, and pinkie mice. A balanced captive diet should include safe fish (salmon, trout, tilapia) and, for juveniles, chopped nightcrawlers to prevent parasites. Feed adults every 5–7 days and juveniles every 2–3 days.
Essential Garter Snake Diet Components
Earthworms: Nightcrawlers are the best, but never use redworms (red wrigglers), as they are toxic to garter snakes.
Fish: Safe options include tilapia, salmon, trout, haddock, and cod, which are low in thiaminase. Avoid feeder fish with high thiaminase levels.
Rodents: Frozen-thawed pinkie mice are excellent for nutrition.
Others: Small frogs, leeches, chicken hearts, and slimy, non-toxic invertebrates.
Feeding Tips & Best Practices
Variety is Key: Rotate between fish, worms, and rodents to ensure proper nutrition.
Avoid Parasites: Use store-bought nightcrawlers instead of wild-caught worms, which can carry parasites.
Feeding Method: Use feeding tongs to offer food, and consider feeding in separate containers to prevent competition or accidental cannibalism.
Supplementation: While a varied diet is best, calcium supplements can be used if feeding a mostly fish-based diet