
The gopher snake has some curious defense mechanisms. A threatened gopher snake may curl up in what seems to be a striking position, but rather than biting, it will strike with a closed mouth, bloodlessly warning off potential foes.
If you see a gopher snake on the trails, give it a respectful berth and admire it from a distance – but not because there is anything to fear. Just like the other animals on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks, the gopher snake has its role to play, and it likes to do so in peace.