Read About Bull Snakes

Bull Snakes may look threatening, but they make good pets once they are used to being handled. Everything you need to know about them is contained in this article.

Bull Snakes - Facts

1. Description:

   Bull snakes are a large constricting species generally found in the plains from southern Canada to northern Mexico. They are non-venomous and otherwise harmless.

2. Varieties:

   Three types of bull snakes are the Common bull snake, the Western bull snake, and the Pine snake.

3. History:

   The bull snake is a member of the family Colubridae. They are found over most of North America.

4. Physical Traits:

   Bull snakes have rather large bodies and small heads, reach up to 5 feet in length, and weigh between 4-8 pounds. They are typically yellowish-brown in color with dark blotches.

5. Other Defining Characteristics:

   Bull snakes hiss and thrash about when they are threatened.

6. Habitat:

   Bull snakes thrive in sandy, open country. They love to sun themselves to keep warm.

Bull Snakes - Concerns

1. Benefits:

   Bull snakes may live for up to 30 years in captivity, and can be a fascinating pet.

2. Liabilities:

   A bull snake may bite if mishandled or feeling threatened.

3. Health Issues:

   Bull snakes may suffer from mouth rot, parasites, dehydration, regurgitation, and burns if they are not properly fed and cared for.

4. Specific Care Needs:

   Bull snakes kept as pets need to be fed much as they are in the wild, although they should be trained to eat dead or incapacitated prey, rather than live food.

5. Reaction to Children and other Pets:

   A bull snake may hiss and thrash about around children and may attempt to attack or bite children and other pets. It is best to use caution when children or other pets are near the bull snake.

6. Special Household Needs:

   Snakes need room to stretch out and move about and need rather large enclosures. They should also have a place to hide when it feeds or just wants to be alone. They need a temperature between 70-80 degrees F. If natural sunlight is not available, an ultraviolet light source is needed for warmth.

Bull Snakes - How to Choose

1. What to Look for:

   A bull snake should have clear eyes, be active, and should appear generally healthy in all other respects.

2. Supplies:

   Besides the aquarium, a snake should have a shielded heating source to prevent burns and something to climb on, such as a large branch.

3. Expense:

   The biggest expense in owning a bull snake is the food you need to supply.