Bullsnake

Bullsnakes are one of six reptile species found in the park.

NPS/Neal Herbert

 

Quick Facts

Scientific name: Pituophis catenifer sayi

Identification

• A subspecies of the gopher snake, is Yellowstone’s largest reptile, ranging from 50 to 72 inches long.
• Yellowish with a series of black, brown, or reddish-brown blotches down the back; the darkest, most contrasting colors are near the head and tail; blotches are shaped as rings around the tail.
• Head resembles a turtle’s in shape, with a protruding scale at the tip of the snout and a dark band extending from the top of the head through the eye to the lower jaw.

Habitat

• In Yellowstone, found at lower elevations; drier, warmer climates; and open areas such as near Mammoth.

Behavior

• Lives in burrows and eats small mammals—behavior that gave the gopher snake its name.
• Often mistaken for a rattlesnake because of its appearance and its defensive behavior: when disturbed, it will coil up, hiss loudly, and vibrate its tail against the ground, producing a rattling sound.

 

Terrestrial Gartersnake

Terrestrial gartersnakes are the most common reptile in Yellowstone.

Prairie Rattlesnake

Prairie rattlesnakes are the only dangerously venomous snakes in Yellowstone.

Rubber Boa

Rubber boas are usually found in rocky areas near streams or rivers with nearby shrubs or trees.

Sagebrush Lizard

The sagebrush lizard is the only lizard in Yellowstone.

Common Gartersnake

Common gartersnakes are only found in southern parts of the park.

Reptiles

There are six reptile species in Yellowstone.