^Click on photo for larger image^ BOA CONSTRICTOR Boa constrictor

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The boa constrictor, known as "wowla" in Belize, are found countrywide as well as on some of the offshore cayes. They will easily inhabit populated areas where rodents and songbirds are abundant.

Boas vary in color from brown to gray with irregular saddles down the entire dorsal body. boas have very large curved teeth for grasping prey before constricting. The boa constrictor is the largest snake in Belize, attaining a length of up to twelve feet. Boas feed primarily on birds, rodents and small mammals. They will also feed on lizards and iguanas. When threatened, a boa will hiss and strike. Although carrying no poison, a bite can be painful. A large female may give birth to as many as fifty young at one time.

KEY FACTS LENGTH: To 12 feet HABITAT: Rainforest, savanna, mangrove swamp DISTRIBUTION: Countrywide and the offshore Cayes FOOD: Small mammals, birds, reptiles