Cuban dwarf boa
A species of West indian wood snakes, Also known as Wood snake Scientific name : Tropidophis melanurus Genus : West indian wood snakes
Cuban dwarf boa, A species of West indian wood snakes
Also known as:
Wood snake
Scientific name: Tropidophis melanurus
Genus: West indian wood snakes
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Thomas Brown , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Tropidophis melanurus is a non-venomous dwarf boa species found mainly in Cuba. Currently, 3 subspecies are recognized, including the typical form described here.
General Info
Lifespan
10-20 years
Diet
Cuban dwarf boa is a carnivorous species predominantly feeding on small reptiles, particularly lizards and skinks. This species also includes in its diet invertebrates like spiders or crustaceans, further exhibiting its adaptability.
Appearance
Cuban dwarf boa is a small, robust snake with a total length up to 80 cm. Its scales have a glossy, smooth texture. The snake presents a dominantly dark brown to black coloration, and patterns of gray or red blotches are scattered throughout its body. These blotches are more pronounced and frequent in juveniles. Its tail, which shows a more vivid red coloration, has a blunt and rounded shape.
Behavior
Cuban dwarf boa is primarily nocturnal, exhibiting crepuscular activity, particularly during dawn and dusk. It exhibits unique shrinking behavior when threatened, decreasing its body length without coiling. Solitary by nature, it also displays territoriality, primarily marking by scent. Adapted to its forest habitat through camouflage, its skin color blends seamlessly with leaf litter.
Population
Stable
Photo By Thomas Brown , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Dwarf boas Genus
West indian wood snakes Species
Cuban dwarf boa