Emerald tree boas, as their name suggests, are a tree dwelling species, spending most of their time high up in the foliage. They prefer to be solitary. They are found in lowland tropical rainforests in the Amazonian and Guianan regions of South America.
Ambush hunters
Emerald tree boas are nocturnal ambush hunters. They lie in wait on a branch above the ground, waiting to strike at any unsuspecting small rodents that walk beneath them.
Did you know?
Emerald tree boas are known as ‘live bearing’ snakes. This means that they do not lay eggs like many other snake species, but retain the babies internally and then ‘give birth’. Unlike mammals, there is no placental connection to the mother – each juvenile is contained inside its own gelatinous sack.
Quick facts
| Scientific name Corallus caninus | Native to South America | Rainforest layer Canopy |
| Diet Rodents, small mammals | Size Maximum length 2 metres | Weight 1.5kg |
| Lifespan 15 years | IUCN conservation status Least concern – learn more | CITES Appendix ii Trade restricted – learn more |
Concerns
Over collection for the pet trade and loss of habitat are the two main threats for this species, however it is not considered to be at risk of becoming endangered.
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