Round Island Keel-Scaled Boa
Casarea dussumieri
The last surviving species of an ancient, highly endangered snake family, found only on Round Island near Mauritius and rescued through conservation breeding.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 1.0-1.5 m (3.3-5 ft)
- Range
- Round Island, Mauritius
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Overview
The Round Island Keel-Scaled Boa is the sole surviving member of a distinct, primitive snake family found only on Round Island off Mauritius. It is considered one of the rarest and most evolutionarily distinct snakes in the world.
Once reduced to a critically small population due to habitat destruction by invasive goats and rabbits, the species has since become a flagship success story in reptile conservation following habitat restoration and captive breeding efforts. It is non-venomous and harmless to humans.
How to identify it
- Slender to moderately built body with distinctly keeled scales
- Yellowish-brown to olive coloration, sometimes with darker mottling
- Relatively large head with pronounced eyes and vertical pupils
- Distinguished from its extinct relative by strongly keeled (rather than smooth) scales
- Adults typically 1-1.5 m in length
Habitat & range
Endemic to Round Island, a small islet off northern Mauritius, where it inhabits palm forest, rocky terrain, and areas undergoing habitat restoration following removal of invasive grazing animals.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Primarily nocturnal, feeding on lizards including geckos and skinks, which it subdues by constriction. It shelters in rock crevices and burrows during the day. It is oviparous, laying small clutches of eggs, a trait distinguishing it from many other boas which bear live young.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Round Island Keel-Scaled Boa venomous?
No, it is non-venomous and harmless to humans.
Is the Round Island Keel-Scaled Boa endangered?
Yes, it has historically been critically endangered, though conservation efforts have improved its status.
Where is the Round Island Keel-Scaled Boa found?
It is endemic to Round Island, a small islet off the coast of Mauritius.
How big does the Round Island Keel-Scaled Boa get?
Adults typically reach 1-1.5 m in length.
Round Island Keel-Scaled Boa guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Round Island Keel-Scaled Boa.
