Bull Snake

Looks how to spot one

scales

A heavy-bodied constrictor with a small head and an enlarged, raised scale on the tip of the snout that helps it dig. The body is covered in keeled scales, and the tail is relatively short and stout.12

Personality what they are like

Bull snakes can be defensive when young or cornered, often coiling, vibrating their tail and hissing loudly to mimic a rattlesnake. However, captive-bred individuals usually calm down quickly with regular, gentle handling and become quite docile. They are not venomous and rarely bite once settled.645

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Diurnal and active during the day. They need plenty of space to explore, climb and burrow. A large vivarium with branches, rocks and deep substrate is essential. They are strong and curious, so enrichment like tunnels and hiding spots is beneficial.74

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Provide a thermal gradient with a basking spot of around 30-32°C and a cooler end around 22-24°C. Use a UVB tube for 12 hours of light daily. Humidity should be kept at 50-60%. A sturdy water bowl is needed, and the enclosure should be misted occasionally. Substrate should be several inches deep to allow burrowing. Clean the enclosure regularly and provide fresh water daily.7

Home where they are happiest

Bull snakes are found in sandy open country, pine barrens, short-grass and mixed-grass prairie, often near river valleys and badlands. They use mammal burrows for shelter and hibernation. In captivity, replicate this with a large, dry vivarium, deep sandy or coir substrate, and plenty of hides. They are not venomous and are legal to keep in most places, but check local regulations as they are a protected species in some regions (e.g., Special Concern in Canada).127

Food basics what goes in the bowl

In the wild they eat small mammals (mice, voles, rabbits), birds, bird eggs and other snakes. In captivity, feed defrosted rodents (mice or rats) and occasionally poultry. Juveniles should be fed every 5-7 days, adults every 10-14 days. A varied diet is recommended, and no extra supplements are needed if the diet is varied.647

Company who they like around

Bull snakes are solitary and should be housed alone. They are not social and do not need company. Handling should be done gently and regularly to build trust, but always respect the snake's mood. They are not venomous, but may hiss or bite if frightened. In some areas they are protected (e.g., Special Concern in Canada), so check local laws before keeping one.25

The story where it all began

Bull snakes have been kept as pets for many decades, admired for their impressive size and calm temperament once tamed. They are one of the largest snakes native to North America and have long been valued by farmers for controlling rodent populations. In captivity, they are considered intermediate-level pets, not ideal for complete beginners because of their sometimes defensive nature as youngsters. However, with proper care they become rewarding, long-lived companions.54

Recognised by the official bits

COSEWIC

Listed as Special Concern in Canada due to habitat loss and roadkill2