Gopher snake?

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Webfoot
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Location: Troutdale

Gopher snake?

Post by Webfoot » June 1st, 2017, 6:31 pm

Is this is gopher snake? Is it safe to handle these, for both of us?
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pcg
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Re: Gopher snake?

Post by pcg » June 1st, 2017, 7:25 pm

Yes and yes. Specifically it's a bull snake, which is a subspecies of gopher snake. They are very docile and safe to handle. You don't need to grab them behind the head as they will not bite, and it wouldn't hurt much if they did.
Here's one I moved off the road in Nevada last week...
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bull snake.jpg

Webfoot
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Re: Gopher snake?

Post by Webfoot » June 1st, 2017, 8:20 pm

This one did seem docile which is why I was tempted to pick him up. I had no thought of grabbing him roughly. Thanks.

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adamschneider
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Re: Gopher snake?

Post by adamschneider » June 1st, 2017, 8:34 pm

Don't try to pick up garter snakes. Those things get ornery and try to bite.

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bobcat
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Re: Gopher snake?

Post by bobcat » June 3rd, 2017, 6:33 am

Gopher snakes seem calm around humans but they are notoriously aggressive towards rattlesnakes since they compete for the same food sources. They will not allow a rattler anywhere near their territory. Old timers used to like having one around their cabin as they not only took care of the mice but they would feel safe stepping out in the morning.

Webfoot
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Re: Gopher snake?

Post by Webfoot » June 3rd, 2017, 9:40 pm

That's quite interesting. I'll be even more happy the next time I see one. :)

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