Annulated Tree Boa
Corallus annulatus
A slender, ring-patterned arboreal boa found in Central American and northwestern South American forests, named for the ring-like blotches along its body.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 1.2-2 m (4-6.5 ft)
- Range
- Central America and northwestern South America
Found a snake like this?
Identify any snake from a photo, free.
Overview
The annulated tree boa is a slender, non-venomous constrictor found in humid forests from Central America into northwestern South America. It is named for the ring-like or annular blotches that pattern its body, distinguishing it from close relatives in the genus.
The species is arboreal and relatively secretive, making sightings less frequent than for some other tree boas. It poses no venom risk to humans.
How to identify it
Annulated tree boas have a slender, laterally compressed body suited to climbing, with large eyes for nocturnal activity.
- Coloration ranges from tan to reddish-brown or gray, marked with dark, ring-like blotches or bands along the body
- Smooth scales and a strongly prehensile tail
- Triangular head distinct from the neck, with heat-sensing pits along the lips
- Adults typically reach 1.2-2 m (4-6.5 ft)
- Ring-like blotch pattern helps distinguish it from other Corallus species such as the Amazon tree boa
Habitat & range
This species inhabits humid lowland and premontane forest across parts of Central America, including Costa Rica and Panama, extending into Colombia and Ecuador. It is strongly arboreal, favoring dense forest canopy and understory vegetation.
It is considered less commonly encountered than some sympatric tree boas, likely due to its secretive habits and forest-dependent range.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Annulated tree boas are nocturnal ambush predators, hunting small mammals, birds, and lizards from perches in vegetation, using heat-sensing pits to detect warm-blooded prey before striking and constricting.
They are ovoviviparous, producing live young in modest litter sizes typical of the genus. They tend to be defensive when handled, often striking readily, though bites carry no venom risk.
Frequently asked questions
Is the annulated tree boa venomous?
No, it is a non-venomous constrictor.
How big does the annulated tree boa get?
Adults typically reach 1.2-2 m (4-6.5 ft).
Where is the annulated tree boa found?
It occurs from Central America into northwestern South America, including Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, and Ecuador.
Why is it called the annulated tree boa?
Its name refers to the ring-like blotches or bands that pattern its body.
Annulated Tree Boa guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Annulated Tree Boa.
