Pacific gopher snake
A species of Gopher snakes Scientific name : Pituophis catenifer catenifer Genus : Gopher snakes
Pacific gopher snake, A species of Gopher snakes
Scientific name: Pituophis catenifer catenifer
Genus: Gopher snakes
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Pacific Southwest Region USFWS , used under PUBLIC-DOMAIN /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
Known by its Latin name 'pacific gopher snake', this animal is a subspecies of bullsnake who are distinguished for an exceptional ability to control rodent populations. Their diurnal nature makes them active hunters during the daytime, relying primarily on their acute sense of smell to locate their prey. This nonvenomous constrictor provides an invaluable role in pest management in their ecological habitats.
General Info
Lifespan
12-20 years
Diet
As a carnivorous species, pacific gopher snake primarily consumes small mammals, especially rodents like mice and rats. Their diet also occasionally includes birds, eggs, and insects, taken both terrestrially and subterraneously.
Appearance
Pacific gopher snake is a large, robust snake with smooth, dry skin. It displays a distinct, vibrant coloration that ranges from light yellow to brown with dark brown or black splotches running lengthwise. Younger specimens tend to have brighter coloration. Males and females look alike, with males typically being slightly larger. It possesses no visible external appendages like wings or horns, but it has a long, tapering tail.
Behavior
Pacific gopher snake exhibits solitary, diurnal behavior, primarily hunting during the day. Known for its defensive attitude, it is quick to hiss and adopt a striking pose predominantly for intimidation rather than actual conflict. Pacific gopher snake uses olfaction for detecting prey and mates. Pacific gopher snake's unique 'sidewinding' locomotion reduces its exposure to hot desert surfaces.
Photo By Pacific Southwest Region USFWS , used under PUBLIC-DOMAIN /Cropped and compressed from original 
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Colubrids Genus
Gopher snakes Species
Pacific gopher snake 
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