Red Sand Boa
Eryx johnii
A thick-bodied, burrowing boa with a blunt tail often mistaken for a second head, prized illegally in wildlife trafficking.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 0.6-1 m (2-3.3 ft)
- Range
- Indian subcontinent, Iran, and parts of the Middle East
Found a snake like this?
Identify any snake from a photo, free.
Overview
The Red Sand Boa is a heavy-bodied, secretive burrowing snake found across arid and semi-arid parts of South Asia and the Middle East. Its blunt, rounded tail closely resembles its head, giving rise to local myths of a 'two-headed snake.'
This species has become a target of illegal wildlife trade driven by superstition, despite having no scientifically supported special properties.
How to identify it
- Cylindrical, muscular body with a blunt, stubby tail closely resembling the head
- Coloration ranges from reddish-brown to grayish-tan, often darker toward the tail
- Small eyes with a narrow head barely distinct from the neck
- Smooth, polished scales
- Distinguished from the Common Sand Boa by its smoother scales, more uniform coloration, and blunter tail
Habitat & range
Inhabits sandy and loose soils in arid scrub, semi-desert, and agricultural fringes across India, Pakistan, Iran, and neighboring regions, spending most of its life underground.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Almost entirely fossorial and nocturnal, rarely seen above ground except during rains or when disturbed. Feeds on small mammals and other burrowing prey using constriction. Gives birth to live young.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Red Sand Boa venomous?
No, it is a non-venomous constrictor.
Why does it look like it has two heads?
Its short, blunt tail closely mimics the shape of its head, an adaptation that likely confuses predators.
Where does it live?
In sandy and loose soils across the Indian subcontinent, Iran, and nearby arid regions.
Is it affected by illegal wildlife trade?
Yes, it is heavily targeted by illegal wildlife trade due to unfounded superstitions, and is legally protected in several countries.
Red Sand Boa guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Red Sand Boa.
