A handsome iridescent arboreal boa endemic to the rainforests of eastern Madagascar, one of three native boa species on the island.
Description
The Madagascar tree boa is a slim arboreal boa reaching about 1.8 m, with vivid green or olive scales overlaid with darker geometric markings outlined in cream. The body is laterally compressed, and the head bears prominent heat-sensing labial pits.
Behavior
Almost entirely arboreal, the species hangs draped over branches during the day and hunts at night, using the labial pits to locate warm-blooded prey. Females give birth to live young, an unusual feature among the Indian Ocean boas. Adults take 5 to 7 years to reach maturity.
Range
Endemic to the moist eastern forests of Madagascar from sea level to about 1,500 m. Habitat loss is gradually shrinking suitable forest, and the species is sometimes collected illegally for the international pet trade.
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Madagascar Tree Boa starts with M and ends with A. Browse other snakes along the same letter.
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