I finally got an email from the Wisconsin DNR's Bureau of Endangered Species - a response to my bullsnake sighting report (and question about the identity of a frog that literally jumped out in front of me on the Chippewa State Trail).
Yes, it's a Bullsnake (Pituophis catenifer), one of the largest (up to 6-feet long) non-venomous snakes in the upper midwest. While it's known for its similarity to a Western Diamondback Rattlesnake and its confusing mimicry - hissing and rattling the vegetation with its tail, it's harmless. Unless you're a rodent (large insect, ground nesting bird, lizard or baby snake), you have nothing to worry about. Just stand still and you'll see this constrictor's most effective defense: slithering away.
Bullsnake range
And the frog that jumped out in front of me the other day - it's a Green Frog (Rana clamitans). At first I thought it might be a Mink Frog (named for a musty odor emitted through the skin - a signal to predators that they're not so tasty). Another example of mimicry. It sure confused me.
At the time, I had insect repellent on my hands, so I didn't pick it up to take a whiff. The Green Frog also has characteristic dark cross-bands on the rear legs. "Sit and wait" hunters, these amphibians feed on the small animals that cross their paths - flies, spiders, crayfish, caterpillars, snails, slugs, butterflies and moths.
At the time, I had insect repellent on my hands, so I didn't pick it up to take a whiff. The Green Frog also has characteristic dark cross-bands on the rear legs. "Sit and wait" hunters, these amphibians feed on the small animals that cross their paths - flies, spiders, crayfish, caterpillars, snails, slugs, butterflies and moths.
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