Why Is It Called a Bull Snake?

Common to other snakes in the Pituophis genus, these snakes have a thin and flexible epiglottis that, when air from the trachea is forced through it, creates a loud hiss that has been described as similar to the grunt of a bull, likely giving the snake its common name (Schmidt & Davis 1941).

Are bull snakes mean?

Bull snakes are not aggressive by nature and will rarely bite unless provoked or startled. Bull snakes are one of the largest species found in the United States. They are powerful snakes ranging from 48- to 72-inches long with an average length of about five feet at maturity.

Is a bull snake a constrictor?

Bull snakes are powerful constrictors and can squeeze prey as large as young rabbits. Smaller bull snakes eat smaller prey.