Grenada Bank Tree Boa
Corallus grenadensis
An arboreal boa endemic to Grenada and its associated Grenadine islands, adapted to island forest habitats and closely related to mainland Corallus species.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 1.2-1.8 m (4-6 ft)
- Range
- Grenada and the Grenadine Islands (Lesser Antilles)
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Overview
The Grenada bank tree boa is a non-venomous arboreal constrictor endemic to Grenada and the small islands of the Grenadine bank in the Lesser Antilles. It represents an island-adapted lineage within the wider Corallus genus of Neotropical tree boas.
As an island endemic with a restricted range, the species is of conservation interest, dependent on the forest habitat available across its limited island distribution. It poses no venom risk to humans.
How to identify it
The Grenada bank tree boa has a slender, arboreal body form typical of its genus, with large eyes suited to nocturnal activity.
- Coloration ranges from tan to reddish-brown or grayish, often with darker, irregular blotching
- Smooth scales and a prehensile tail for gripping branches
- Triangular head with heat-sensing labial pits
- Adults typically reach 1.2-1.8 m (4-6 ft)
- Distinguished from mainland relatives primarily by its restricted island range and subtle scale/pattern differences
Habitat & range
This species is restricted to Grenada and neighboring islets of the Grenadine bank, where it inhabits forest, scrub, and cultivated land with sufficient tree cover. It is strongly arboreal, using vegetation for both hunting and shelter.
Habitat availability on these small islands directly constrains population size and distribution.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Grenada bank tree boas are nocturnal, ambushing birds, bats, and small mammals from vegetation using heat-sensing pits to detect prey before striking and constricting.
They are ovoviviparous, producing live young in modest litters typical of the genus. They can display defensive striking behavior when disturbed but pose no venom-related risk.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Grenada bank tree boa venomous?
No, it is a non-venomous constrictor.
How big does the Grenada bank tree boa get?
Adults typically reach 1.2-1.8 m (4-6 ft).
Where is the Grenada bank tree boa found?
It is endemic to Grenada and the small islands of the Grenadine bank in the Lesser Antilles.
Is the Grenada bank tree boa arboreal?
Yes, it is strongly arboreal, relying on trees and vegetation for hunting and shelter.
Grenada Bank Tree Boa guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Grenada Bank Tree Boa.
