Boa Constrictor

The Boa Constrictor is a widespread and highly adaptable non-venomous snake ranging from Mexico through Central America and into much of South America, with several subspecies recognized across its range. It is one of the most well-known large snakes in the world, both for its natural history and its long history in the exotic pet trade.

Despite its size and reputation, it is generally a calm and non-aggressive species that relies on constriction rather than venom to subdue prey.

• Tan, gray, or brown background color with darker brown or reddish saddle-shaped blotches along the back
• Blotches often become more reddish or maroon toward the tail, giving rise to the common name 'red-tailed boa' in some populations
• Heavy-bodied with a moderately long tail
• Head is triangular and distinct from the neck, though lacking heat-sensing pits like true pit vipers
• Round pupils
• Distinguished from pythons (which it resembles in build) by its live-bearing reproduction and New World distribution

Highly adaptable, occurring in tropical rainforests, dry forests, savannas, semi-desert scrub, and agricultural areas from Mexico through Central America and much of tropical South America, as well as some Caribbean islands.

Primarily nocturnal, though sometimes active during cooler daytime periods. Both terrestrial and a capable climber, especially as juveniles. Feeds on a wide variety of birds and mammals, subduing prey through constriction. Viviparous, giving birth to live young in relatively large litters. Generally docile and reluctant to bite when undisturbed.