Rubber Boa
Charina umbratica
The tiny Rubber Boa is related to the giants of South America, the Anaconda and Boa constrictor. Rubber Boas are constrictors that squeeze to death their prey. They are considered rather lethargic, harmless snakes that resemble large worms. They have blunt heads and tails. When encountered in the field, a boa will coil into a tight ball displaying its tail, protecting its head. Rubber boas are good climbers and swimmers, but prefer to burrow in loose soil
Description: Rubbery looking, rich brown, olive, or pinkish color; looks like a large worm. Blunt tail; head rounded, eyes small with vertical pupils Length 14” – 33” (3.5 to 7.5 dm)
Habitat: Near water, grasslands, desert, woodlands, mountain forests, especially where soil is loose enough for borrowing. From sea level to 9,000’ or 10,000’.
Range: Northwest U.S. extending into British Columbia, down to southern CA; not in CO, AZ, or NM.
Food: Primarily rodents and shrews; also lizards and other snakes
Season: Active at night
Reproduction:
Comments: Nocturnal