Description
This is a large, heavy bodied snake which may reach 2
m in total length. It is light coloured with dark black, brown or
reddish rectagular blotches down the back alternating with blotches
on the sides to form a checkered pattern. In the Alberta
subspecies, commonly called the Bullsnake, individuals are
yellowish in background colour. In the British Columbia subspecies
the blotches on the back may be fused to those on the sides. The
scales on the belly may be checkered as well, generally brown and
cream colours.
Confusing Species
There are three other western blotched snakes. The Western Hognose has a
characteristic
upturned snout. The Western
Rattlesnake has a distinctly triangular head, a rattle at the
tip of the tail and more rounded or hexagonal blotches. The Night Snake is a small slender
snake with a verticle pupil in the eye.
Distribution
Gopher Snakes are found in southern Saskatchewan,
Alberta and interior British Columbia. It is widely distributed
throughout much of the western and southeastern US and south into
Mexico.
Habitat
The species is found in desert, short grass prairie and
dry open scrubland. It is often seen near rock piles or boulders
in areas with sandy soil but may also be found near farms and
fields.
Reproduction
Gopher Snakes mate in the spring and from 2-24 eggs are
laid once or twice during the summer. These are often laid in
small mammal burrows. Hatchlings are 20-40 cm total length and
appear in late summer or early fall.
Natural history
Gopher Snakes eat small mammals, especially rodents,
for which they are prized by farmers. They also eat birds, bird
eggs, lizards and invertebrates. They are primarily active during
the day but may burrow underground during very hot weather and
become more active at night. They are often mistaken for
Rattlesnakes for a number of reasons. They are found in the same
habitats, tend to hibernate in the same dens and when frightened
they hiss loudly and vibrate their tails. Although they do not
have a rattle, in dry grass the vibrating tail may sound similar to
a rattle. Although not poisonous they do have a painful bite.
Conservation Concerns
Like many snakes, Gopher Snakes are often killed
maliciously by people who either think they are dangerous or simply
don't like snakes.
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