This afternoon a Santa Cruz Gartersnake (Thamnophis atratus atratus) was found sunning itself in the middle of the driveway.  This particular species is a very common, and very welcome, inhabitant of the farm.

Santa Cruz Gartersnake (click image to enlarge)

Santa Cruz Gartersnake (Thamnophis atratus atratus)

Santa Cruz Gartersnake (Thamnophis atratus atratus)

We are surrounded by woodland and have two seasonal creeks on the property, ideal habitat for this species of snake.  The Santa Cruz Gartersnake is a non-venomous, aquatic species, and feeds primarily on amphibians and small fish.