The Bull Snakes 



exist to a considerably greater number than with the snakes 

 of the genus already described, are much smaller, and closely 

 succeeding one another. On the sides is a very obscure series 

 of smaller blotches. Beneath, the colour is yellowish, with 

 small and dark blotches at the edges of the abdominal plates. 



Variations. — There is considerable variation of the colour 

 of the blotches on the back. These vary from intense black on 

 some specimens, to reddish-brown on others. Young specimens 

 are marked like the parent. 



Dimensions. — The Pacific Coast Bull Snake does not appear 

 to attain so great a length as the species inhabiting the prairies. 

 Following are the measurements of an adult specimen: 



Total Length 4 ft. 7 inches. 



Diameter of Body i J 



Length of Tail 9J " 



Wid^th of Head i " 



LengthofHead U " 



Distribution. — The Pacific Coast region, west of the Sierra 

 Nevada Mountains. 



Habits.— Ihere is but little variation between the habits 

 of this snake and the other species of the genus. It is fairly 

 hardy as a captive if kept very warm and dry. Judging from 

 observations of a fair series of specimens, this snake is of a less 

 vicious disposition than the other species. When greatly dis- 

 turbed it hisses loudly and vibrates the tail. 



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