The boa constrictor is a large species of snake native to Central and South America. They are a ubiquitous species split into 9 subspecies, all of which are capable of living in most environments but mostly found in rainforests, coastal areas and semi-deserts. Although there are many different colours and patterns among these snakes, the typical appearance is pale brown, dark brown and black scales in a rhomboid pattern down the length of the body. The species exhibits sexual dimorphism; the males and females look different. Males are an average length of between 1.8 and 2.4m, with pelvic spurs around their cloaca that are used to facilitate mating. Females are larger, with an average length of between 2.1 and 3m, whilst they have pelvic spurs they are smaller than the male’s.
Latin Name
Boa constrictor
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Animal Facts
Boas and pythons have a rudimentary pelvis and vestigial hind legs inside their body.
The scale colour and pattern of boa constrictors depends on where they are from; there are a huge range of colours in the wild and even more in captivity due to selective breeding.
Boa constrictors give birth to live young.
Boa constrictors will shed their skin every 2 to 4 months as they continue to grow throughout their life.
Contrary to popular belief, boa constrictors do not kill their prey by suffocation, but by cutting off blood supply to vital organs.