You would have heard of bulls and snakes. But have you ever heard of a “bull snake?” It is one of the numerous species of snakes thriving in this world. It grows up to 5 feet or more; at times, its length is as much as 9 feet! Unlike many other snakes, this one has no venom in its body. So it’s not one of the world’s deadliest snakes. It is also known as “gopher snake” in the western parts of the US. Read along to learn more about this fascinating reptile species in detail!
Bull Snake
Bull snakes belong to the long list of serpent species that are non-venomous and occur naturally in America. They are known for their strong ability to constrict their prey, thereby subduing it before swallowing it whole. Due to their coloration and habits, bull snakes tend to be confused with rattlesnakes but they are without fangs that can inject poison or even a rattle. For instance, they play an important role in managing rodents that invade farmland or gardens, which helps to protect crops from destruction caused by these pests.
How Did the Bull Snake Get Its Name?
The bull snake is venomous.
- A. True
- B. False
You might have many theories in mind about how the bull snake acquired its name. But here’s the truth! When this snake is startled or threatened, it makes a loud hissing noise that is similar to the snorting of a bull, hence the name. Sounds interesting, right?
Also Read Interesting Facts about Animals That Don’t Make Noise!
The other names given to the snake are listed below:
- Henry snake
- Oregon bull snake
- Western pine snake
- Yellow gopher snake
- Blow snake
Bull Snake – Appearance
The snake has a heavy body with a small head. The yellowish or light brown body is covered with black or dark brown blotches. Some might be white or cream-colored with dark blotches. You can also find black markings on the back, sides, neck, and tail. The colors can vary depending on the subspecies. These reptiles have rows of small, sharp teeth.
Bull snakes look pretty similar to rattlesnakes, which are poisonous. Therefore, some mistake them to be rattlesnakes and end up killing them.
Are Bull Snakes Poisonous
Let me tell you, bull snakes, even though they throw their hissing and puffing fits are completely harmless! Unlike their poisonous counterparts, these beneficial constrictors effectively manage the rodent problem without endangering humans. They have no venom glands and suffocate their prey by constricting their bodies around the prey.
Latest Research: According to the University of Nebraska Extension, while bull snake saliva does contain bacteria that could potentially cause infection, bites are rare and rarely pose a serious health risk.
Bull Snake – Habitat
The snake is said to be “fossorial,” which means that it lives underground by digging tunnels and burrows. Sometimes, the snakes also climb trees while searching for their prey. You can even see some of them in rock piles and clumps of vegetation. The snake’s body color offers it much-needed camouflage in the places where it lives, thereby safeguarding it from its predators.
You can find lots of bull snakes in the pine barrens and sandy regions of North America, British Columbia, and certain parts of Mexico, California, and Canada. The largest bullsnake ever recorded in history was found in Minnesota, and was 8 feet 4 inches long!
What Do They Feed On?
They feed on rats, mice, squirrels, and lizards. Rabbits, birds, and smaller reptiles also form a major part of their hunted prey. Since the snakes eat the rodents that destroy a large number of crops, they are considered beneficial for agriculture.
When the snakes attack their prey, they grasp the animals with their mouths and just swallow them. These snakes also love eating eggs, which they do by damaging the nests of their favorite birds.
Did you know that the snakes are excellent constrictors? Yes! They can squeeze animals like rabbits to death. Within 3 seconds, they can grab hold of the prey using their teeth and coil around it!
Do Bull Snakes eat Rattlesnakes?
That’s right, bull snakes are one of the animals that eat rattlesnakes in nature. Bull snakes are the most famous for their unbelievable constriction skills which enable them to get the better of and eat rattlesnakes, however, this behavior is not their main diet. Mainly they derive their nutrients from eating rodents, birds, and eggs, and the few times they cross paths with rattlesnakes they usually eat one. This is the reason why people who live in areas where rattlesnakes abound regard them very positively.
Predators of Bull Snakes
The animals that feed on bull snakes include weasels, foxes, coyotes, and other bigger snakes and birds of prey.
When a predator threatens a bullsnake, it coils up and raises its tail. It then shakes (or vibrates) the tail, just like a rattlesnake, and hisses loudly with a partly open mouth.
Behavior Patterns
Many of the snakes seem to have a “rowdy” temperament. They are very active during the day, and like to hunt for their prey alone. As pets, they can be pretty difficult, they are not suitable for beginners who wish to have pets.
At times, a bullsnake might bite you, so you must be extra careful when you are in close range. Many of these reptiles are bred in captivity in several countries. Frequent handling is required if you wish to tame one of these snakes.
Where Do They Hibernate?
The snakes usually hibernate in what are called, “snake dens,” along with other snakes, during the winter months. When they go into hibernation, their bodies adjust by reducing the rates of metabolism and other functions. They usually shed their skin after the period of dormancy.
When Do They Reproduce?
The snakes mate after coming out of hibernation. In June or July, the females lay 3 to 24 eggs below logs or huge rocks. Some of them lay eggs in the underground burrows they dig, and others in sandy soil. Research suggests that sometimes, the mother snakes deposit the eggs in safe places abandoned by other animals.
Lifespan of the Snakes
In the wild, they live up to 12 years. However, many bull snakes held in captivity have lived up to 30 years and more.
Protect the Snakes and Their Environment
Bull snakes don’t come under the list of endangered species. However, they must be protected, just like many other reptiles. So try to safeguard these snakes and the environment where they live. Knowing the facts about the bull snake and its life will help you in this regard. To refresh your memory on these facts, answer the Quiz on this page!
FAQ:
1. How poisonous is a bull snake?
Bull snakes are not poisonous. They are non-venomous constrictors and pose no threat to humans, relying on their strong muscles to subdue prey rather than venom.
2. Why is it called a bull snake?
The bull snake is named for its tendency to make a loud hissing noise and flatten its head when threatened, resembling the behavior of a bull.
3. What is the lifespan of a bull snake?
The lifespan of a bull snake is typically around 12 to 20 years in the wild. In captivity, with proper care, they can live
4. How to identify a bull snake?
To identify a bull snake, look for a large, sturdy body with a pattern of dark brown or yellowish scales and a broad, flat head. They may also hiss loudly when threatened.
5. Can bull snakes climb?
Bull snakes are not skilled climbers and mostly stay on the ground, but they can climb low vegetation or rough surfaces when needed.