Animal Fact Sheet
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Rosy Boa
Lichanura trivirgata
What does it look
like?
Rosy boas are a heavy bodied snake. They are one of the smallest
members of the boa family (classified in the sub-family Erycinae)
and not usually longer then 3 feet. Females are generally larger
then the males. They have a small head, which is barely distinguished
from the body and have smooth, shiny scales. The rosy boa usually
has a pattern of three stripes down the length of their body (one
stripe on the dorsal side and the other two running laterally).
The background is usually lighter.
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| Where
in the world?
They can be found in the Mojave Desert and Colorado Desert of S-central
California, southward to Baja and east to the basin ranges of W.
Arizona, and western Sonora in Mexico. You would find them living
in desert environments, arid sage scrub, rocky areas, ravines, and
particularly where there is moisture.
What are some behaviors?
Like other boas they kill their prey by constriction. They are primarily
a ground dwelling snake, but will and are able to climb. Rosys are
mostly active at night (nocturnal), but also at dusk. In the early
spring or in the cooler areas of its range, they may be active in
the daytime. If feeling defensive, they may roll up into a ball
keeping their head in the center for protection and release a foul
smelling musk.
What about offspring?
They begin to come out of hibernation around March, breeding begins
in May/June and 5-13 live young are born in October/November after
approximately 130 days. Being born just before winter, the young
rosy may not eat before going into hibernation. Like other members
of the boa family, the male rosy has two claw-like spurs adjacent
to the cloaca. He will use these to interest the female in breeding.
The rosy boa has been recorded living over 18
years. |
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What does it eat?
Rosy boas eat small mammals and birds.
Is it threatened
or endangered?
They are currently a federal special concern species and being protected
from trade. To collect them in the wild in California and Arizona
requires a permit and hunting license. Commercial collecting is
not allowed. |
