How are non-poisonous snakes different from rattlesnakes?
In comparison, non-poisonous snakes have round pupils in their eyes. A non-poisonous snake tends to look more like a snake a child rolls out of clay: the head, neck and body have more-or-less the same diameter. They do not share the distinct skinny neck of the rattlesnake. This is true only of snakes native to California and does not apply to exotic snakes or snakes imported into California from elsewhere. The Pacific Gopher snake and the common Bull snake have markings that are similar to a rattlesnake. These rattlesnake-like markings are a protective defense against enemies. But neither the Gopher Snake nor the Bull snake has the distinctive skinny neck that a rattler has. Still, many people are fooled into thinking that a Gopher or Bull snake is a rattlesnake. Bull snakes and Gopher snakes can cause a painful bite but they are not dangerous like a rattlesnake. Be safe, be smart: Leave snakes alone and avoid a bite. What do I do for initial first aid? Because most Californians live i
