WNC Nature Center Notes: Garter snakes are important part of ecosystem Candace Poolton, Volunteer and Community Outreach Coordinator Garter snakes brumate, or hibernate, during the winter. Oftentimes they hibernate with a large group of other garter snakes in burrows. In fact, there have been recent studies done on social constructs within the garter snake community. According to the Smithsonian Institution, garter snakes are much more social than once thought. The study found that garter snakes tend to stick with one “friend” or socialize with one specific group of snakes. When separated from their group or friend, they always find their way back to their preferred clique.