Bullsnake

Pituophis catenifer sayi

Venom Status:

Non Venomous

 

Characteristics:

A large (5 to 7 feet), defensive snake with a loud, hiss and a penchant for vibrating its tail when annoyed. It is annoyed easily, has a feisty disposition and large heavily keeled scales. Much time is spent in rodent burrows. If disturbed while above ground it will often elevate its head well above body level and strike savagely from a modified coil. If sufficiently angered it may, while striking, actually move toward a person. This snake has a yellowish head with an enlarged rostral (nosetip) scale, a yellowish ground color, prominent brown to black dorsal saddles that are darkest anteriorly. Belly is yellow with prominent black spots. Oviparous. Hatchlings are like adults in appearance

 

Unique Features:

The enlarged rostral scale, heavily keeled scales, and range will help identify this large constrictor

 

Habitat and Diet:

Plains, prairie, and desert. A wanderer that may be seen as it emerges from rodent burrows or crosses roadways. Prey includes lizards, small mammals, and birds

 

Geographic Range:

IL, IN, LA, MN, CO, MT, ID, KS, MO, NE, IA, WY, NM, ND, OK, WI, SD