Boa Constrictor

Throughout the world there are over 3,000 species of snakes. In fact, snakes can be found almost everywhere across the globe, with a few exceptions like Antarctica, Iceland and New Zealand. They can vary massively in their appearance, behaviour and characteristics. Some lay eggs while others give birth to live young, some like wet weather, others like dry deserts and some even live in the sea!

Here, we’re going to explore one very interesting species of snake: the boa constrictor. This is an incredibly beautiful snake with some of the most distinctive markings, and while it might not be the biggest snake in the world, it’s certainly a fascinating one.

What is a boa constrictor?

A boa constrictor (Boa constrictor) is a large species of snake native to Central and South America. Belonging to the Boidae family of snakes, this snake is closely related to the rainbow boa (Epicrates cenchria) and the green anaconda (Eunectes murinus).

Boas, unlike most snakes, are ovoviviparous which means they give birth to live young instead of laying eggs.

They are relatively large snakes, growing up between 2 and 3 metres, with females typically reaching a larger size than males. A female adult can weigh between 10 and 15 kilos.

Their large size doesn’t necessarily make them easy to spot, however. Their beautiful markings disguises them perfectly in the dense jungles that they call home. With a mixture of greens, browns, and black, these gorgeously patterned animals are something to behold.

Are boa constrictors dangerous?

Many snakes can deliver a venomous bite, but boas are a non-venomous species. However, they will still bite if they feel like they need to defend themselves. They are generally quite docile creatures, but they’re also incredibly strong, so they should be treated with respect and distance!

Boas aren’t known to be particularly dangerous to humans but larger individuals could still cause some harm.

Where do boa constrictors live?

Boa constrictors call the tropical climates of Central and South America home. They are typically found in rainforest clearings or edges, but they also live in areas of woodland, grassland, semi-desert and dry tropical forests too.

You might not know that boa constrictors are actually quite good swimmers, but they prefer to live on land most of the time, only venturing into the water very occasionally.

What do boa constrictors eat?

Boas are ambush predators, relying on stealth and camouflage to surprise their prey. They will typically eat anything they can fit in their mouths, which can range from birds, bats and other small mammals. As they get bigger, they have been known to eat monkeys and wild pigs too!

A boa constrictor will wrap around its prey tightly until the constriction halts blood flow and prevents oxygen from reaching vital organs such as the heart and brain, leading to unconsciousness within seconds and cardiac arrest shortly thereafter. The snake will then swallow its prey whole! After a big meal, they can go weeks without eating.

Boa constrictors, pythons and anacondas: What’s the difference?

There are a few key differences between boas and pythons, despite them looking reasonably similar. For example pythons have more bones in their heads and more teeth than boas.

Pythons belong to the Pythonidae family, while boas and anacodas both belong to the same Boidae family.

Pythons are also, on average, larger than boas, with the reticulated python being the longest snake in the world. The anaconda is, however, the heaviest snake on the planet.

Both boas and pythons kill their prey by constriction because they are both non-venomous animals and as such need to rely on other methods.

4 facts you should know about boa constrictors

Now that you know the basics about boa constrictors, let’s take a look at some of the fascinating facts that make these animals so beloved amongst reptile lovers.

Boa constrictors are typically solitary animals

Unlike some species of snakes, boa constrictors are generally solitary animals, spending most of their lives by themselves. The only time you are likely to see adult constrictors together is when they’re mating.

Females can give birth to up to 60 live babies at once

Boa constrictors are ovoviviparous, meaning that they give birth to live young. The females incubate their eggs inside their bodies, and once this has taken place over four months or so, the mother can give birth to up to 60 live snakes at once.

Boas grow continuously throughout their life

Throughout their lives, boas grow continuously. Over their 20 to 30 years on Earth, they can reach lengths of up to 3 metres. During this time, boa constrictors have to shed their skin as their skin doesn’t grow with them. Naturally, younger boas grow quicker than older ones meaning that they shed their skin more frequently. During the shedding process, their eyesight can become poor and they are typically more vulnerable.

Boas are nocturnal or crepuscular

Boas are nocturnal or crepuscular animals, which means that they are usually seen at night or during the hours surrounding nighttime. You are unlikely to see a boa constrictor slithering around during the daytime!

Boa constrictors really are remarkable creatures that deserve our respect and admiration. If you’d like to see a boa constrictor up close, book your tickets to Blue Planet Aquarium and marvel at the beauty of this reptilian wonder.