Alberta Herps
Bullsnake (Pituophis catenifer)
Distribution
- restricted to short-grass paririe region.
Brief Description
- largest reptile in Alberta; no facial pits; rostral scale not upturned; males may be larger than females.
Habitat
- dry habitat; may seek refuge under rocks and in rodent burrows.
Feeding
- a generalist feeder; feeds on rodents, rabbits, other small mammals, birds, eggs, lizards, and arthropods.
Reproduction
- mating occurs in spring; males engage in mating combat during mating season for access to females; oviparous; females lay one ot two clutches of between 2-24 eggs each summer.
Status in Alberta
-
- possibly stable population; protection of hibernacula and critical habitat needed to secure stability
Other Internet Resources
References
- Anonymous. 1996. The status of Alberta wildlife. Wildlife Management Division Report. Alberta Environmental Protection, Govertment of Alberta.
- Russell, A. P., and A. M. Bauer. in press. The Amphibians and Reptiles of Alberta: A Field Guide and Primer of Boreal Herpetology. University of Calgary Press. 2nd Edition.
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Website created: 21 January 1998
Last modified: 8 February, 2000
Website maintained by Mrinal Das
© Mrinal Das 2000