The Boa constrictor is a large snake, although only modestly sized in comparison to many other larger snakes such as the reticulated and Burmese python, and can reach lengths of anywhere from 1-4 meters or 3-13 feet depending on the locality and the availability of suitable prey. There is clear sexual dimorphism seen in the species with females generally being significantly larger, in both length and girth, than males. As such the average size of a mature female boa is between 7-10 ft, whilst it is only 6-8 ft for the males. It is common for female individuals to exceed 10 ft, particularly in captivity, where lengths of up to 12 ft or even 14 ft can be seen. A report of a Boa constrictor growing up to 18½ ft (5.5m) was later found to be a misidentified green anaconda.
Boa Constrictor Snake
Beautiful Boa Constrictor Snake in the branch
Photo of Babies Boa Constrictor Snake
Boa Constrictor Snake
Black and brown type color of Boa Constrictor Snake
A Child with tame Boa Constrictor Snake
Awesome Boa Constrictor Snake
The Boa constrictor (Boa constrictor) is a large, heavy-bodied species of snake. It is a member of the Boidae family that found in Central America, South America and some islands in the Caribbean. A staple of private collections and public displays, their color pattern is highly variable yet distinctive. Ten subspecies are currently recognized, although some of these are controversial. This article focuses on the species Boa constrictor as a whole, but also specifically on the nominate subspecies Boa constrictor constrictor.
The Boa constrictor is a heavy bodied snake, and large specimens can weight up to 27 kg (60Ibs).
Habitat
Boa constrictor flourishes in a wide variety of environmental conditions, from tropical rainforests to arid semi-desert country. However, it prefers to live in rainforest due to the humidity and temperature, natural cover from predators and vast amount of potential prey. It is commonly found in or along rivers and streams, as it is a very capable swimmer. Boa constrictor will also occupy the burrows of medium-sized mammals, where it can hide from potential predators.
Prey
Prey includes a wide variety of mammals and birds. The bulk of their diet consists of rodents, but larger lizards and mammals as big as ocelots are also reported to have been consumed. Young Boa constrictors will eat small mice, birds, bats, lizards and amphibians. The size of the prey item will increase as they get older and larger.