Males have much wider heads.

It sounds like you might be new to the hobby. A mentor in your area would be a good thing.

http://www.fieldherpforum.com/forum/index.php

and for SoCal -

http://www.fieldherpforum.com/forum/viewforum.php?f=5

Try to find someone willing on taking you out - or go to a meeting (they don't charge AFAIK) - and your experiences will be better.
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3.6 L. getula californiae
1.1 L. getula nigrita
1.0 Pantherophis guttatus guttatus
1.0 Thamnophis sirtalis fitchi
1.0 Boa constrictor constrictor (suriname, fostering/rescue)
3.3 Elgaria multicarinata multicarinata