(440) 286-9516
Kids found this garter snake in our yard in Chardon. We noticed this spot near its tail where the scales seem to be open and inner parts are visible. Is the snake injured or is this a natural part of snakes?
Kids found this garter snake in our yard in Chardon. We noticed this spot near its tail where the scales seem to be open and inner parts are visible. Is the snake injured or is this a natural part of snakes?
Looking at your great photo of the underside of the snake, the scales that are from the head to the end of the body are single scales known as ventral scales. The plate dividing the body from the snake’s tail and covering the cloacal opening is known as the anal plate or anal scale. I have also heard that opening referred to as the vent. The scales covering the underside of the tail are known as subcaudal scales. You will notice that these scales appear as two scales instead of one, as we saw in the body of the snake. Let me know if you have any other questions.
Snakes are amazing critters!
Thanks for your inquiry!
-Naturalist Dottie Drockton
Do you enjoy special events, family activities, experiences in Nature, programs for seniors or or several/all of the above? Sign up for our emails tailored to your interests by selecting the proper categories below. We promise we won’t flood your inbox – just send you what we think you’ll like.
We look forward to keeping in touch!