California SB765 designates the giant garter snake as the official state snake, recognizing its ecological importance and endangered status.

California SB765 adds the giant garter snake (Thamnophis gigas) as the official state snake, highlighting its unique presence in California's ecosystems. The bill acknowledges the snake's historical decline due to habitat loss from agricultural conversion, urban development, and water diversions. Despite being listed as threatened under state and federal acts since 1971 and 1993, the snake's population has not recovered. The designation aims to reinforce California's commitment to protecting endangered species and their habitats.

California SB765 designates the giant garter snake as the official state snake, recognizing its ecological importance and endangered status.

California SB765 adds the giant garter snake (Thamnophis gigas) as the official state snake, highlighting its unique presence in California's ecosystems. The bill acknowledges the snake's historical decline due to habitat loss from agricultural conversion, urban development, and water diversions. Despite being listed as threatened under state and federal acts since 1971 and 1993, the snake's population has not recovered. The designation aims to reinforce California's commitment to protecting endangered species and their habitats.