A subspecies of the pinesnake and gopher snake is the bullsnake. Bullsnakes, or Pituophis catenifer sayi as they are named technically, make good pets for intermediate and seasoned snake keepers but are not advised for novices.
In the western, southern, and southeastern United States, as well as in Texas, bullsnakes are widespread. They are only found in the northwest sand prairie of Indiana, but the number of them there has gradually decreased. They are land-dwelling reptiles that climb trees and traverse the landscape in quest of prey. They primarily eat lizards, birds, and rodents.
They like sandy soil because to their burrowing Behaviors and are common in sand prairies, fields, and grasslands. They may successfully hunt rodents close to human habitations, where they can remain undetected in abandoned buildings.
Short Facts
| Common name | Bullsnake, pilot snake, pine snake, gopher snake |
| Scientific name | Pituophis catenifer sayi |
| Adult size | usually 3-6ft, but can grow up to 8ft |
| Lifespan | 12-30 years |
| Diet | small rodents & insects |
| Tank size | at least 4ft x 2ft x 2ft |
| Humidity & temperature | 82-85F daytime, 72-75F nighttime |
| popular substitutes | Russian rat snakes, hognose snakes, and garter snakes |
Profile of the Bullsnake Species
Size & Physical Characteristics
These enormous, distinctive, heavy-bodied snakes are beige or yellowish-brown in hue, with dark, broad stripes that are speckled with brown or black. The eyes are shaded in darkness, and the head is pointed. They have black markings and a yellowish belly. Adults can reach lengths of over six feet, ranging from three to five feet. Up to 8 feet in length have been recorded for larger species.
The juveniles’ and adults’ colors hardly differ from one another. With the exception of a minor difference in patterning, they are nearly identical in appearance.
Lifespan
Bullsnakes can live for almost 30 years in captivity. They typically survive up to twelve years in the wild, though. Unfortunately, there are worries due to their vulnerability to habitat destruction and illegal captivity for the pet trade in a few places, such as Wisconsin.
Sustainability and Ecology
Due to their lethargic movement, these snakes frequently die while crossing or sunbathing on roads. Conservationists are concerned about two things: habitat damage and road fatality.
Bullsnakes are classified as “of least concern” by the IUCN, the organization in charge of judging the conservation status of animals.
Habitat and Hibernation
These snakes of the open country are fossorial (burrowing) species that spend the majority of their time underground. Their typical hunting territory is around 18 acres, but if they become really active, they can greatly increase this area.
Hatching Patterns And Offspring
Egg layers include bullsnakes. The eggs are laid in the burrows that the females have dug, either by themselves or using tiny mammal remains as filler. After hibernating, she mates in March and April and lays five to nineteen eggs in loose soil until May. Their eggs are approximately 112 by 2 inches, are white, and have a hard, leathery shell.
After roughly 60 days, up to 15 hatchlings will show their faces in the early fall. At 7 to 10 days old, the hatchlings, which range in length from 10 to 17 inches, begin to shed their skin.
Behavior
If bullsnakes sense a threat, they will defend themselves. They initially react by remaining motionless and still. They will then retreat whenever they decide they may leave.
They can’t move quickly, but if the threat persists, they will rise up and rear as much as they can while hissing at the apparent threat. While lunging, it will simultaneously retreat in order to get away.
When threatened, hatchlings are more likely to bite than adults. However, a captive snake can become completely tame and tractable with repeated, gentle treatment.
Misinformation regarding the species frequently leads to its extinction. Their pattern of coloration, stance, and hissing when threatened can closely resemble a rattlesnake. These protective actions are designed to fend off threats, not to display an aggressive position.
However, unlike rattlesnakes, they never raise their tails in a defensive posture; instead, they keep them on the ground and vibrate them against plants and leaves.
Care Manual
Bullsnakes have a variety of temperaments; some are placid but can become irrational when they need to defend themselves. They dislike being handled regularly, hiss loudly to scare off potential enemies, and hold themselves in an S-curve. They are non-venomous, nevertheless, and only attack when provoked.
Pets kept in captivity will try to skulk around in substrate-level hiding places or boxes and rely on their owners for a bowl of fresh water. If the bowl is big enough, it enjoys curling up in the water as well.
To become a responsible keeper, follow the instructions in this care manual and learn about the species.
Typical Illnesses and Disorders
An improperly fitted heater in a captive cage is a frequent source of injury for domestic bullsnakes and can cause catastrophic harm.
Despite the fact that these reptiles enjoy eating rodents, a rat bite can be dangerous and even deadly. It is never advised to feed live rodents to your bullsnake. An infected stomatitis (mouth rot) can result after a rodent attack.
If the temperature in the cage fluctuates, respiratory illness may develop. Make sure the cage is never damp and maintain a consistent level of humidity. Blister illness can also be brought on by a dirty, moist cage.
A few health issues, such as retained eyecups, etc., will arise from the improper shedding of its skin. For a seamless transition from one shedding cycle to the next, make sure your snake is sufficiently hydrated.
Make sure you are familiar with a local veterinarian who specializes in snakes and reptiles before you buy and house a bullsnake.
Housing
The tank or terrarium should be at least 4 feet by 2 feet by 2 feet in size, while some adults could need it to be bigger. Babies should live in a tank that is at least one foot long.
A layer of cork bark or other appropriate material, such as dry mulch or leaves, should be placed on the bottom. This will guarantee a content pet in a setting that mimics nature.
A top lockable cover for the tank is required. The top of the cage should have heating elements and lighting fixtures out of the snake’s reach.
The temperature should be maintained at 72 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit at night and 82 to 88 degrees F during the day using an appropriate under-tank heating pad. You can also provide some appropriate furnishings, like little branches and rocks, but stay away from anything sharp that could pierce the snake’s skin.
Diet and Nutrition
These reptiles have strong constrictors and squeeze their victim to death. Because they enjoy eating rats, gophers, and other small mammals, wild bullsnakes are thought to help farmers by reducing the number of pests.
Bullsnakes normally don’t make noise. However, when they’re hungry, they become active. You may keep an eye on your snake’s behavior to determine when it is hungry. Giving it a meal that doesn’t surpass its head’s diameter is a smart approach to gauge how much to feed it.
A quick surprise will lead them to regurgitate a substantial meal, so they shouldn’t consume anything too huge. A hatchling can consume at least one mouse every week, whereas an adult can go 10 days without eating anything but mice or rats. Allow your snake’s behavior to indicate when it is hungry.
When it’s time to feed your pet, approach cautiously and slowly to prevent overstimulating them.
Use pre-killed prey if you wish to feed your bullsnake rodents because domestic bullsnakes lack the reflexes necessary to kill live rodents effectively and without harming themselves. Observe the conditions and conditions above.
How to Take Care of a Snake
It is advised to always approach from the side because animals, especially young ones, are cautious of movement from above. If they are shedding, this can further impede the snake’s vision and terrify it, prompting it to respond violently and bite what it believes to be a threat. Since snakes are quick to react, the slower you move, the better their response.
Slide one hand under your snake and place the other hand approximately halfway forward from the tail if you need to grip it. Work slowly while letting go of the snake. Avoid applying excessive pressure, especially if the snake has just eaten, as it can vomit up its meal. After the snake has eaten, it is preferable to let it alone for a few days.
After handling or even after cleaning the cage, wash your hands thoroughly to avoid catching salmonella, a bacteria frequently carried by amphibians and reptiles.
Having a pet bull snake
Bullsnakes should only be handled by knowledgeable and seasoned snake handlers. They’re not thought to be the greatest choice for novices because rat snakes and garter snakes are more resilient and manageable.
Bullsnakes typically cost $250 to $450. Always make sure you’re purchasing from a reputable, licensed breeder. Our knowledgeable staff is always available to assist you if you need advice on where to locate and purchase from reputable breeders.
Bullsnakes are attractive, gratifying pets, and their lengthy lifespan ensures their continued popularity across the country.
