Rosy Boa
Lichanura trivirgata • Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Boidae, Subfamily: Erycinae, Genus: Lichanura, Species: trivirgata
Southwestern United States (California, Arizona) and Northwestern Mexico (Baja California, Sonora).
Look up Rosy Boa in the Snake Encyclopedia →Venomous Status
Non-venomous
Danger Level
Harmless; extremely docile and rarely bites human beings. Poses no medical risk.
Family
Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Boidae, Subfamily: Erycinae, Genus: Lichanura, Species: trivirgata
Conservation
IUCN Least Concern. Primary threats include habitat loss due to development and illegal collection for the pet trade.
Physical Description
Heavy-bodied snake with smooth, small scales. Distinctive pattern of three longitudinal stripes (longitudinal lines) that can be orange, brown, or reddish against a gray, tan, or cream background. Head is slightly distinct from the neck with small scales on top, and eyes have vertical pupils.
Size & Dimensions
Typically 17 to 34 inches (43-86 cm) in length. Maximum recorded is about 44 inches. This specimen appears to be an adult.
Habitat
Arid and semi-arid rocky habitats, including deserts, scrublands, and coastal sage scrub. Prefers rocky outcrops, crevices, and canyon bottoms from sea level to approximately 4,500 feet.
Behavior & Temperament
Slow-moving and very docile. Primarily crepuscular or nocturnal during hot months, but may be diurnal in spring. Defensive behavior includes coiling into a tight ball with the head protected in the center.
Diet & Feeding
Active forager and ambush predator. Diet consists mainly of small mammals (rodents), birds, and occasionally lizards. Kills prey through constriction.
Reproduction
Ovoviviparous (gives birth to live young). Litters typically range from 3 to 8 neonates, born in late summer or early fall.
Venom Profile
Non-venomous - no medically significant venom.
Look-alikes
Could be confused with the Three-lined Boa (Lichanura orcutti) in certain ranges, but distinguished by specific stripe color and locality. Generally unique within its desert range.
Conservation Status
IUCN Least Concern. Primary threats include habitat loss due to development and illegal collection for the pet trade.
Cultural Significance
Highly prized in the herpetocultural (pet) trade due to its small size and gentle nature. Plays an important ecological role in controlling rodent populations.
Notable Features
One of only two species of boa native to the United States. It possesses 'spurs' near the vent, which are vestigial hind limbs characteristic of many boid snakes.