California’s Newest State Symbol Carries a Critical Mission
Save The Snakes is thrilled to announce a monumental achievement for wildlife conservation!
On October 9, 2025, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 765 into law, officially designating the giant gartersnake (Thamnophis gigas) as the State Snake of California.
Our state symbols celebrate California’s uniqueness, especially our distinctive ecosystems. California is a global biodiversity hotspot, with both the highest total number of species and the highest number of endemic species in the United States – including our new state shrub and snake.
Governor Gavin Newsom
This historic success is the result of a powerful, multi-year campaign led by Save The Snakes in partnership with Senator Roger Niello and the California Rice Commission. The designation immediately raises awareness and conservation action for this spectacular serpent, as declaring the giant gartersnake the official state snake leverages the visibility of a state symbol to ensure conservation education for millions of students about this threatened species vital to the health of California’s Central Valley wetlands.
This is more than just a symbol—it’s a crucial step in highlighting the importance of California’s disappearing wetlands and the unique native species that rely on them.
Learn more about the importance of the giant gartersnake here: savethesnakes.org/ggs
Join the Action
The work doesn’t stop with the Governor’s signature. This designation is a launchpad for future Save The Snakes’ giant gartersnake conservation efforts, including rigorous educational outreach, field research and habitat protection.
Want to help protect the giant gartersnake?
- Learn: Research the role of wetlands and rice fields in supporting the giant gartersnake’s habitat.
- Support: Donate today to support Save The Snake’s wildlife conservation efforts.
- Share: Help us spread the word about California’s new, threatened State Snake!
Let’s celebrate this incredible victory and continue to work together to save the snakes!
Press Inquiries
For all media and press-related inquiries, please contact: contact@savethesnakes.org
