(Oops! Just notified by system that my photo is too large. Don't know how to quickly size down the photo, will need to post it later. It shows my Red-spotted & Northwestern cousins snuggling together on their basking ledge.)

I have a digital camera, but it's very difficult photographing in the vivarium with the glare. Since my two Garters are WC, I'm not yet to the stage of photo sessions outside their biome.

Within 2 days, my Northwestern was eating pinkies & worms. He has a VERY friendly nature & disposition, and likes to watch me at the computer.

Within 5 days, my Red-spotted was eating frogs. He is more independent & spirited, and an exceptionally patient, swift & accurate hunter, but is slowly warming. My movement next to their biome don't usually alarm them; sometimes I can even stick my hand in the vivarium and they only slightly budge.

Very animated, great fun, very hardy. Ironic that I spent so many years with exotics, then Kingsnakes, only to find the ideal snake companion in my local Garter species! Ah, the irony & paradox...

Ameron
Portland, OR