Colombian Red-Tailed Boa Constrictor
Boa constrictor constrictor
Columbian red-tailed boas are a part of the boa constrictor family and are one of the few species where their scientific name and common names are similar. They have earned their name boa constrictors because of their hunting style which includes ambushing their prey and constricting or squeezing them. Boa constrictors have become popular as one of the largest species of snake. There are nine subspecies of boa constrictor and have a wide range from northern Mexico south through Central and South America. In South America, the range is split by the Andes mountains, and to the east, they can be found as far south as northern Argentina, and on the west, their range extends into Peru. These boas have a distinct coloration and pattern which includes being a cream or brown-colored body with darker brown “saddle-shaped” bands and spots going down their body.
Click HERE for an older kids boa Activity Sheet!
Click HERE for a younger kids boa Activity Sheet
Our Current Residents
Leroy, Male - Hatched 2013-2015 (estimated and celebrated)
Leroy came to Zoo Montana in 2018 as a pet surrender is our heaviest snake at the zoo at about twenty-five pounds. Although Leroy can look very intimidating based on his size, he is very gentle and works well with his keepers. Leroy is located inside and does move around his habitat and may be found in different spots like on the top shelf, in a log, or hanging out by his pool.
Taxonomy
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Reptilia
- Order: Squamata
- Family: Boidae
- Genus: Boa
- Species: Boa constrictor constrictor
Animal Facts
Carnivore: mainly eat small mammals, bats, and birds (and eat infrequently)
Population Status: currently listed as Least Concern
Habitat: can vary from rainforest, grasslands, woodlands, semi deserts and more
Activity: nocturnal (or crepuscular)- mostly active during the night (or dusk and dawn)
