Gopher Snake Pituophis catenifer - Special Concern

Description: 36 - 72 inches. Bullsnakes are light, yellow or straw base color, with a row of dark blotches running down the back. The sides have smaller blotches, bars, or speckling. Blotches and other markings are usually very dark near the head and tail, but usually fade to a light brown or rust color in the middle portion of the body on adults. The belly is light colored with a series of dark squares scattered on it.

Similar Species: Western Fox Snakes may be mistaken for Bullsnakes, but will have a darker overall appearance and a reddish-orange head as an adult.

Comments: Bullsnakes have disappeared from much of their former range in Minnesota due to habitat loss as a result of urban development. Many populations are now restricted to protected lands. Please report observations.

Distribution Map
Distribution of the Gopher Snake (Pituophis catenifer)

This map is generated from data provided by the Bell Museum of Natural History and HerpMapper.org. Please help us keep it up-to-date by submitting your amphibian and reptile observations.

Phenology of Gopher Snake (Pituophis catenifer)
Photographs