JOURNAL ARTICLE

Garter snakes make friends, organize their society around females.

  • Published In: Sciencemag.org, 2023. P. N.PAG 1 of 3

  • Database: Applied Science & Technology Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Howlett, Joseph 3 of 3

Abstract

Garter snakes have been found to form social groups centered around females, according to a study that is the most extensive field study of snake sociality ever conducted. Previously, it was believed that snakes were solitary creatures that only came together for mating and hibernation. However, this study shows that garter snakes have clear "communities" composed of individuals they prefer to hang out with, with females acting as leaders that tie the groups together and guide their movements. The study also found that older females were the most central members of the snakes' social networks and tended to lead their younger peers. This research sheds new light on garter snake sociality and highlights the importance of females in snake societies. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Sciencemag.org. 2023/12, pN.PAG
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Zoology
  • Publication Date:2023
  • Accession Number:174292751
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