Pituophis catenifer
The Gopher Snake is also known as the bullsnake or sometimes the “blow snake” because of its ability to hiss loudly when it is agitated. It is large snake, 4 to 5 feet long, and is robust in build. There is a distinct size difference between its head and neck, but not as exaggerated as in the rattlesnakes. Yellow or tan with black to dark brown blotches, it is sometimes confused with the rattlesnakes. However, it has a slender tapering tail without rattles. It can put on a good “rattler” imitation by coiling, hissing, flattening its head, and rapidly vibrating its tail. This is not all bluff since, like most wild animals, it will bite to defend itself. It is not venomous, and its bite, while painful, is not dangerous. The females may lay 2 clutches of from 2 to 24 eggs. Hatchlings are 12 to 18 inches long. Habitat: The Gopher Snake is found in all recreation area habitats. Its activity pattern is typical of many desert animals that are diurnal when temperatures allow and become either crepuscular or nocturnal whenever temperatures exceed wheat the snake can tolerate. Diet: Rodents are its preferred food, but it will take birds and their eggs, lizards, and other snakes. They kill their prey by constricting or squeezing them. Adaptations: Flexibility in habitat choice when they are active and prey selection allow the Gopher Snake to be one of the most widely known snake species in America.
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