The Bullsnake is the largest snake species in Illinois. The largest recorded specimen was just over seven feet long. It is a member of the genus Pituophis, which also includes gopher and pine snakes. When threatened, members of this genus produce a characteristic loud hiss. Though non-venomous, they are also apt to strike repeatedly. Bullsnakes occur in nearly every habitat throughout Illinois from prairies and farmed lands to heavily wooded areas. Their diet consists primarily of rodents, and these snakes have a voracious appetite for them. Birds are also sometimes eaten. Bullsnakes are able to constrict two or more prey animals simultaneously, sometimes pressing the prey against nearby objects. This has essentially the same effect as constriction. Injured or young prey animals which present little hazard to the snake are sometimes swallowed alive.
