Garter Snake

The people that are building a house behind us bulldozed the fence line a few weeks ago. Since then, I've been trying to clean up our side of the fence. I was outside yesterday removing a large thorn bush when I came across this guy. I always jump the first time I see a snake. After that, I'm fine with them, but it's that initial shock that gets me.


This is definitely the largest snake we've seen here. He's close to three feet in length. We used to have a brown snake living near our deck, but I think the hawk got him a few years ago. He was about two or so feet long.


Now that I know this guy is around, I'll be more careful to not upset his world. Or step on him.