Seasonal and Environmental Influences on Snake Captures in Northern Indiana

Midwestern snake populations have been declining, yet, snakes are challenging to capture and study due to their cryptic nature. We examined how the time of sampling, coverboard type, and temperature influenced the capture rates and sizes of Common Gartersnakes (Thamnophis sirtalis) and Dekay’s Brownsnakes (Storeria dekayi). We deployed coverboards (rubber or carpet) at 20 sites across northern Indiana and found that T. sirtalis captures peaked in July and August, and both species had smaller sizes in August. Coverboard type had no significant effect. These findings provide insight into snake ecology, particularly seasonal patterns, and habitat preferences, informing future conservation efforts.