Gopher snakes are found in a variety of habitats throughout the western United States from the Great Plains to the deserts of Arizona and California. They are frequently seen in open areas such as prairies and farmlands but can also be found in more forested habitats. In general gopher snakes prefer areas with loose sandy soils that are easy to burrow into.
Gopher snakes are often seen basking in the sun on rocks and roads and sometimes enter human dwellings in search of food or shelter. When threatened they may coil up and strike or release a foul-smelling musk from their anal glands. Despite their sometimes aggressive appearance gopher snakes are non-venomous and pose no threat to humans.
The gopher snake is a large heavy-bodied snake that can reach lengths of up to 6 feet (1.8 m). It is typically yellowish-brown or tan in color with large dark brown spots that run the length of its body. The belly is usually light-colored with dark spots or blotches.
Gopher snakes are opportunistic feeders preying on a variety of small mammals birds and reptiles. Their diet consists primarily of mice voles and gophers but they will also eat lizards snakes and bird eggs. They use their sharp curved teeth and powerful jaws to grasp and hold onto their prey while they constrict it.
What is the scientific name for the gopher snake?
The scientific name for the gopher snake is Pituophis catenifer.
What kind of snake is the gopher snake?
The gopher snake is a type of constrictor snake.
Where do gopher snakes live?
Gopher snakes can be found throughout the western United States and parts of Mexico.
What do gopher snakes eat?
Gopher snakes are opportunistic feeders and will eat a variety of small mammals lizards and birds.
How do gopher snakes kill their prey?
Gopher snakes kill their prey by constriction.
How long do gopher snakes typically grow to be?
Gopher snakes typically grow to be between 3 and 5 feet in length.
What color are gopher snakes?
Gopher snakes can be a variety of colors but are typically some shade of brown or gray.
Do gopher snakes have venom?
Gopher snakes are non-venomous.
Are gopher snakes dangerous to humans?
Gopher snakes are not dangerous to humans.
However they may bite if they feel threatened.
What is the average lifespan of a gopher snake?
The average lifespan of a gopher snake is 10-20 years.
How do gopher snakes mate?
Male gopher snakes will wrestle with each other for the chance to mate with a female.
The winner of the wrestling match will then mate with the female.
How many eggs does a female gopher snake typically lay?
A female gopher snake typically lays between 6 and 24 eggs.
When do gopher snakes hatch?
Gopher snakes typically hatch between late summer and early fall.
What predators do gopher snakes have?
Some predators of gopher snakes include birds of prey coyotes and foxes.
What do gopher snakes use their tails for?
Gopher snakes use their tails to lure prey.
