The Gopher Snake (Pituophis catenifer) is a widespread, non-venomous species found across North America, inhabiting diverse environments from deserts to forests. This snake plays a useful role in ecosystems by controlling rodent populations. While generally considered docile, gopher snakes can and sometimes do bite when provoked, but only under specific circumstances.
Understanding the Gopher Snake’s Defense Strategy
A bite from a gopher snake is almost always an act of self-defense, typically occurring when the animal feels cornered, is handled, or is actively harassed. Before resorting to an actual bite, the snake employs a dramatic and convincing threat display designed to deter predators.
The display involves coiling the body into an “S” shape to prepare for a strike and inflating the body to appear larger. The gopher snake produces one of the loudest hisses among North American snakes, earning it the common name “bull snake” in some regions. It may also flatten its head, making it appear wider and triangular, much like a viper. The rapid vibration of the tail against dry leaves creates a buzzing sound deceptively similar to a rattlesnake.
The actual strike is often a closed-mouth lunge intended only to scare a threat away. Biting is a last resort, used only when these elaborate threat displays fail or when the snake is physically restrained. This defensive behavior is an attempt to avoid confrontation, not an act of aggression.
Assessing the Bite: Non-Venomous and Harmless
Gopher snakes are non-venomous. Their dentition consists of small, sharp, solid teeth arranged in rows, primarily used for holding prey during constriction. Consequently, a bite from a Pituophis catenifer is not medically serious and does not pose a significant health risk to humans.
The typical injury is minor, usually resulting in superficial puncture wounds or lacerations on the skin. The bite may be painful, depending on the snake’s size, but it is not life-threatening. The primary concern following a non-venomous bite is the potential for local infection, as bacteria from the snake’s mouth may enter the wound.
If a bite occurs, the wound should be cleaned immediately and thoroughly with soap and warm water. An antiseptic solution can be applied, and the area should be covered with a clean, dry bandage. Monitor the site for signs of infection, such as increasing redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge. Medical attention is typically unnecessary unless infection symptoms develop or if the patient’s tetanus immunization status is not current.
How to Avoid Being Bitten
Preventing a gopher snake bite requires respecting the animal’s space and understanding its habitat. These snakes are often found in areas with high rodent activity, such as grasslands, agricultural fields, and rocky areas where they can easily find burrows. They may also be encountered basking on trails or roads, particularly during cooler parts of the day.
The simplest and most effective prevention method is to observe any snake from a distance and never attempt to capture or handle it. If a gopher snake is encountered, the proper action is to slowly and calmly back away from the animal, allowing it a clear path to retreat. Cornering the snake or attempting to prod it increases the likelihood of triggering its defensive biting response.
Mistaken Identity: Gopher Snakes vs. Rattlesnakes
Gopher snakes are frequently mistaken for rattlesnakes, a confusion that often leads to the harmless snake being killed. This misidentification is due to the gopher snake’s defensive mimicry, including its blotchy pattern and tail-shaking. However, several distinct physical characteristics allow for accurate identification.
A rattlesnake possesses a broad, triangular-shaped head that is noticeably wider than its neck. In contrast, the gopher snake has a more slender, rounded head that is only slightly wider than its body. Rattlesnake pupils are vertical, slit-like ovals, while the gopher snake has round pupils.
The most definitive difference is the tail: rattlesnakes have a segmented, keratinous rattle. The gopher snake’s tail simply tapers to a point. Although the gopher snake vibrates its tail, there are no loose segments to produce a true rattle sound. Learning these distinctions helps ensure public safety and protects the ecologically beneficial gopher snake.