"A semi-aquatic species that is considered one of North America's largest native snakes, with a maximum length of 64 inches, the nonpoisonous striped snake has historically thrived in natural wetlands along California's Central Valley, from Chico down to Fresno. Unfortunately, the giant garter snake is becoming a casualty of California's brutal cycle of droughts and habitat destruction - as much of the Central Valley converts to agriculture or infrastructure development, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service."
"It has been listed as endangered since 1993. According to SB 765, "despite efforts under these acts, the giant garter snake population has not recovered, and as California faces an uncertain future due to climate change, so does the survival of this uniquely Californian species." To this point, it has managed to survive by inhabiting artificial waterways like irrigation, canals and rice fields, where it became a familiar sight for local farmers, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service."
Gov. Gavin Newsom signed SB 765 to give the giant garter snake official recognition in California. The semi-aquatic, nonpoisonous snake can reach 64 inches and historically inhabited Central Valley wetlands from Chico to Fresno. The species has been listed as endangered since 1993 due to drought, habitat destruction, and conversion of wetlands to agriculture and development. The snake has relied on artificial waterways such as irrigation canals and rice fields, but shifts away from rice toward orchards and dry farmland threaten those habitats. Conservationists hope elevated public awareness will spur protection efforts and improve the snake's chance of survival.
Read at Los Angeles Times
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