Bahamian Boa
Chilabothrus exsul
A West Indian boa endemic to islands of the northern Bahamas.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 0.9-1.5 m (3-5 ft)
- Range
- Northern Bahamas
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Overview
The Bahamian Boa is one of several island-endemic boas within the genus Chilabothrus distributed across the Bahamian archipelago, each restricted to particular islands or island groups.
It inhabits a range of habitats from coastal scrub to pine forest, and like other Bahamian boas, faces conservation pressures from habitat modification and introduced predators.
How to identify it
- Moderate-sized, slender to moderately stout body
- Coloration brown to grayish with darker blotches or bands
- Smooth scales, head distinct from neck
- Large eyes for nocturnal activity
- Distinguished from other Bahamian boas primarily by island distribution
Habitat & range
Found in coastal scrub, pine forest, and broadleaf coppice habitats on islands of the northern Bahamas.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal, feeding on birds, bats, and small mammals, sometimes using ambush near roost sites. Shelters in rock crevices, tree hollows, or dense vegetation during the day. Reproduces via live birth.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Bahamian Boa venomous?
No, it is a non-venomous constrictor.
Where is it endemic to?
Islands of the northern Bahamas.
What does it eat?
Birds, bats, and small mammals, hunted primarily at night.
Is it related to other Bahamian boas?
Yes, it belongs to a group of closely related island-endemic Chilabothrus boas distributed across different parts of the Bahamas.
Bahamian Boa guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Bahamian Boa.
