are bull snakes and gopher snakes the same
The gopher snake has an odd defensive mechanism, in which it will puff up its body and curl itself into the classic strike pose of a pit viper. However, rather than delivering an open-mouthed strike, the gopher snake is known for striking with a closed mouth, using its blunt nose to warn-off possible predators. For other species sharing this common name, see bull snake. The bullsnake (Pituophis catenifer sayi ) is a large nonvenomous colubrid snake. It is currently considered a subspecies of the gopher snake (Pituophis catenifer). Difference Between Gopher Snakes & Bull Snakes. Bull snake, pine snake and gopher snake are different names for a single species (Pituophis melanoleucus or Pituophis catenifer). In the western United States, the species is frequently called the gopher snake; in eastern states, bull snake is more common. Differences in Ecology and Biology that Enable these two Snakes to Coexist: Rattlesnakes have a more variable diet (snakes, lizards, amphibians, and all types of warm-blooded prey). Bullsnakes favor primarily warm-blooded prey and bird eggs. Although bullsnakes eat many of the same prey as rattlesnakes, they eat them in different proportions. Adult bullsnakes average about 4 to 6 feet (1.2 to 1.8 m) in total length, and specimens of up to 8 feet 4 inches (2.5 m) have been recorded. Adult specimens can have an average weight in the range of 1–1.5 kg (2.2–3.3 lb), though the heavier known specimens can attain 3.6–4.5 kg (7.9–9.9 lb), larger specimens being quite bulky for a colubrid snake. Common name: Pacific gopher snake, coast gopher snake, western gopher snake, more. Pituophis catenifer is a species of nonvenomous colubrid snake endemic to North America. Six subspecies are currently recognized, including the nominotypical subspecies, Pituophis catenifer catenifer, described here. Not Dangerous (Non-poisonous) Gopher Snakes do not have venom that is dangerous to most humans. Gopher Snakes are one of the most commonly seen snakes in California. Primarily active during the day, they are also active after sundown on hot days. They are often observed crawling across trails and roads, especially in the morning and evenings when daytime temperatures are high. This snake is often mistaken for the prairie rattlesnake but can be easily distinguished from a rattlesnake by the lack of black and white banding on its tail, and by the shape of its head which is narrower than a rattlesnake's. Distinguishing Features. Large and heavy-bodied, the gopher snake is reported to reach 9 feet (275 cm) in length, but 4 feet (120 cm) is more common. On its back are 33 to 66 light- to dark-brown or reddish blotches on a ground color of yellow, straw, tan or cream. Smaller blotches are located on the animals sides. NA/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images. Bull snake, pine snake and gopher snake are different names for a single species (Pituophis melanoleucus or Pituophis catenifer). In the western United States, the species is frequently called the gopher snake; in eastern states, bull snake is more common.
Yes, bull snakes and gopher snakes are the same.