Animals Of the Month

THREATENED SPECIES

BAHAMIAN BOA CONSTRICTOR

The Bahamian boa constrictor (Epicrates striatus) is a native species to The Bahamas, found on almost all major Bahamian islands. As tree-dwellers, these snakes are non-venemous and enjoy a diet of frogs, birds and rats, and, if allowed to live a full life, will consume thousands of rats and mice in their lifetime. Bahamian folklore has it that the Bahamian boa is a threat to humans, and as a result, many are needlessly killed every year. The species is threatened and at risk of endangerment for this reason, as well as habitat destruction and collection as pets. We have three Bahamian boas on display at Ardastra: Jackie, Chunk and Slim. They are all between six and seven feet in length.