Finding and seeing a boa in the wild can be an amazing opportunity, and there’s nothing quite like encountering one in Belize’s lush rainforests! From the ancient Maya, who revered them as spiritual beings, to modern-day wildlife enthusiasts, these powerful constrictors continue to captivate everyone who encounters them. Let’s discover all there is about the Boa Constrictor snake in Belize.
Let’s dive into the fascinating world of Belize’s most iconic snake!
Locally known as “Wowla,” the Boa Constrictor snake in Belize is the largest and most iconic snake in Central America. From early childhood to today, this particular has always captivated me. Now, living in a place where I can literally find them in my backyard is an incredible reality. While the internet likes to claim that boas commonly grow to 13 feet, an 8-foot boa is considered very large. Did you know the boas found on the cayes are actually regarded as dwarf boas?
My first time finding a boa in Belize was in 2010 and that was after vacationing many times here since my first trip in 1997. Since moving to Belize in 2021, I have easily found more than a dozen of them on my road and on my property. The largest one I found was seven feet long. There was a second boa, that might have been larger, but it was impossible to measure because I came across her shortly after she had eaten a very large meal.
The very first boa I found in Belize in 2010 – 3 feet long
Natural Habitat, Distribution, and Finding a Boa Constrictor in Belize
The reality is that boa constrictors can be found in virtually every habitat across Belize, including Belize City. Belize is home to coastal mangrove forests, pine forests – Pine Ridge, broken canopy broadleaf forests – Broken Ridge, Cohune palm forests – Cohune Ridge, broadleaf hardwood forests – High Ridge, savanna, and everything in between. Because I live along the Belize River, the forests that are around me would be considered broken canopy broadleaf riparian forests.
These fascinating snakes can be found in all these habitats up to 1,000 metres in mountainous regions. Boas are also commonly found around farms, attracted to chickens and rats. A few times a year, the news reports about stories of startled residents who discover a boa in their house in Belize City. The reason behind this is that often trash is piled up trash piles in backyards and around houses which attracts rats and other animals.
Despite their size, these snakes are elusive, often staying hidden as they wait for prey. Spotting a boa often requires being in the right place at the right time. Boas are also often encountered crossing roads. Exploring frequently increases your chances of seeing them, as is true for much of Belize’s wildlife. The jungle is full of creatures, but the key to their survival is staying hidden from predators.
I love finding boa constrictors on my farm
Physical Characteristics and Mating Behaviours of Belizean Boa Constrictors
Besides their size, the part I love about finding boas is I love their unique pattern and coloration. Rarely will you find two alike.
The boa constrictor has a long, triangular head with dark streaks extending from its eyes to the back of its jaw, as well as an additional dark streak running along the top of its head. Its primary coloration features deep brown and black markings—often forming triangles, ovals, or interconnected ovals—set against a pale brown and gray background. However, the colors and patterns can vary widely, not only between subspecies but also among individuals within the same population. In the pet trade, these ovals are often referred to as saddles. Particularly beautiful boas tend to have perfect saddles where the ovals are not broken or mashed together. Some boas also display a bit of pink or salmon on their underbelly.
Those circles are referred to as saddles – unbroken ones are preferred in the pet trade.
Size-wise, our Belizean boas are impressive but not record-breaking. As mentioned, the largest one I’ve ever measured was a female stretching seven feet. However, locals often claim sightings of 15-foot boas, contributing to urban legends. The general length of male boas is five to six feet, while females are 5 to 7 feet.
The best way to distinguish between males and females is by examining the tail. The tail size of male and female boa constrictors differs due to their reproductive anatomy. Males generally have longer and thicker tails than females, which is a result of housing their hemipenes (paired reproductive organs). In contrast, females have shorter and more tapered tails.
Also, boas have small, claw-like spurs located on either side of their cloaca, remnants of hind limbs from their evolutionary ancestors. These spurs are more prominent in males and are used during courtship to stimulate and position the female for mating. During courtship, males stroke and stimulate females with their spurs to encourage mating and position themselves correctly. I refer to it as the male using his spurs to tickle the female during courtship. These spurs are only found on boas and pythons—no other snake species.
The spurs of a snake – because they are visible this is a male snake.
If the snake was female the spurs would be about 1/4 of the size.
After the seasonal rainy season in Belize has ended and the dry season begins, male boa constrictors set out to find a mate. While males breed annually, females may not. The male fertilizes the eggs through copulation at the cloaca. Fertilization occurs internally, and the gestation period typically ranges from five to eight months.
Female boas give birth to an average of 20 – 30 live offspring, although they can have as many as 60 babies at once. Unlike mammals, the mother provides no post-birth care.
With at least ten subspecies of boa constrictors, the Latin name of the boas found in Belize is Boa constrictor imperator, and based on my research, there are four variants: the boas found on the mainland, along with the Caye Caulker boa, the Ambergris Caye boa, and Crawl Caye boa. The Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye’s boas are not known to grow longer than four feet. Therefore, I make a special note about the island boas being special to Belize. Unfortunately, I rarely travel out to the Cayes, so I have yet to find one of those beauties. But it would make my year!
The only baby (neonate) boa I have ever come across in Belize.
He was attacked by a dog in the village – unfortunately, it did not survive.
Cultural Significance of Boa Constrictors in Belize
Boa constrictors hold a notable cultural significance in Belize, especially in relation to the ancient Mayan civilization. The Mayans saw many animals, including the boa constrictor, as symbols of power, strength, and mystery. They often associated the boa, with its imposing presence and ability to constrict its prey, with the underworld, transformation, and fertility.
The Mayan name for the boa constrictor is “chak” or “ch’ak” in the Yucatec Maya language. This term refers to large snakes in general and can be found in various historical and cultural contexts, especially relating to serpents and their symbolic roles in Mayan mythology and cosmology.
It’s important to note that the Mayan people had a rich and diverse set of languages and dialects, and different regions may have variations in how animals and natural elements were named. The term “chak” often referred to large, powerful serpents, embodying traits such as strength, danger, and transformation, which were important themes in Mayan culture.
Cultural Significance in Mayan Mythology:
- Symbol of the Underworld: In Mayan cosmology, the serpent symbolized a connection to the underworld, a theme that frequently appeared in their mythology. The serpent or snake is an important figure in Mayan creation myths, associated with the god Itzamná, who was a creator god and a god of wisdom, healing, and the skies. The snake’s ability to shed its skin was a powerful symbol of renewal and rebirth.
- Transformation and Fertility: The Mayans believed snakes were connected to fertility due to their role in the natural world. The act of shedding skin symbolized renewal, while their movements on the earth’s surface represented the fertility of the land.
- The Feathered Serpent: The feathered serpent god, Kukulkan (known as Quetzalcoatl in Aztec culture), was another significant deity. While Kukulkan is generally depicted with feathers, the idea of a serpent figure was prevalent across Mesoamerica, symbolizing divine power, the cyclical nature of time, and cosmic order. Though not specifically the boa constrictor, this deity shares similar serpent-related symbolism.
Role in Mayan Artwork:
- Carvings and Imagery: Boa constrictors, as part of the broader serpent family, appear in Mayan artwork, often depicted in carvings and murals. They were shown as powerful creatures, sometimes intertwined with gods or figures representing the underworld. Their presence in art often conveyed the dual themes of both danger and protection.
- The Serpent in Architecture: Many Mayan pyramids, such as those at Chichen Itza, incorporate serpent symbolism. For instance, the famous feathered serpent motif becomes visible during the spring and autumn equinoxes when the shadow of the pyramid at Chichen Itza creates an image of a serpent descending the steps. While this typically refers to Quetzalcoatl, it reflects the reverence for serpents in Mayan culture.
In summary, the boa constrictor, along with other serpents, held significant symbolism for the ancient Maya, representing themes of power, rebirth, and fertility. These symbols are still appreciated in the context of Mayan heritage and Belizean culture.
Conservation and Local Attitudes About Boas in Belize
Through educational efforts, some people are willing to catch and release a boa found on their property. Unfortunately, since Adam and Eve’s first interaction with a snake, snakes have had a bum rap.
In this country, I fear the general consensus when a boa is discovered on someone’s property, or more unfortunately in their chicken coop, is to kill the snake. This is the case in my own village, which is part of The Community Baboon Sanctuary. And should point out that this is the attitude of people living in a wildlife sanctuary, where I have a bit of a reputation for snake evangelism, sharing when I can about the need to save snakes. I often give people a chance to touch a snake’s tail, also known as the safe end, to help them get over their fears. There is one young kid in the village who loves snakes, so maybe there is still hope.
Snake Evangelism
This woman never touched a snake before that day
Notice that I keep the snake’s head away from the woman. She only touches the safe end.
A Personal Plea – Human-snake Conflict Resolution
There is absolutely no reason to kill a boa constrictor found on your property or in your chicken coop. Boas can be safely caught, moved, and released. If a boa has unfortunately killed a chicken, the snake is simply doing what comes naturally to it. Killing the snake won’t bring back the chicken (I promise).
Check out my next chapter on how to safely remove a snake from your home, property, or chicken coop.
If you need help removing the snake or are interested in learning about snakes in Belize, I recommend two really good Facebook Groups – Creatures of Belize and Snakes of Belize.
As you are about to read, boas are pretty important to Belize.
Ecological Role and Conservation:
Boa constrictors are part of Belize’s rich biodiversity, and as such, they are important in local conservation efforts. While they aren’t as iconic as the jaguar or toucan, boa constrictors play a role in the ecology of the country, especially in the forests and jungles. In Belizean culture, there is an emphasis on protecting and preserving natural resources, and snakes are considered part of the country’s natural heritage. Boa constrictors play a role in maintaining the balance of local ecosystems.
They generally feed on large lizards, small or moderate-sized birds, opossums, bats, rats, squirrels, and unfortunately chickens. Key point – Boas eat opossums. As harmless as opossums are, most chicken keepers dislike opossums just as much as snakes. Snakes are easier to relocate than opossums. And everyone hates rats – snakes are our friend!
Wildlife Tourism:
In modern Belize, the boa constrictor also plays a role in wildlife tourism. The country is known for its ecotourism, where visitors often explore wildlife-rich areas like the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and The Community Baboon Sanctuary. Although boas may not be the primary attraction, they are part of the broader biodiversity that draws tourists interested in wildlife. Local guides may incorporate knowledge of the species into their tours, linking the snake to the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the country.
In the village, a boa had just killed an agouti, its natural prey.
Unfortunately, I had to separate the snake from its meal for relocation,
as the snake would have been surely killed by locals.
What to Do if You Encounter a Boa and Tips for Safely Observing
Congratulations, first off, very few tourists are likely to come across a boa during their short visit here. If you are an expat, with any luck, you will see one shortly. Every time I see one, it makes my day. It’s a huge thrill.
As mentioned, boas can pretty much be seen anywhere in the country. The key is to have an eye for the color pattern hidden among vegetation or to be at the right place at the right time if one happens to be on the move. Most internet articles will suggest the best time of the day to observe boas is in the evening. However, I have come across just as many during the day as I have at night. The key is vigilance.
Vigilance is key. This snake came that close from being run over on my bike
Important: Boas are not venomous, and in my experience, about 50% of the boas I have come across have a calm demeanor and about 50% have a defensive attitude from being disturbed. A bite from a large boa will hurt. If bitten, clean the wound with soap. Apply an antiseptic, such as hydrogen peroxide, iodine, or an alcohol-based solution, to kill any remaining bacteria and reduce the risk of infection. You do not need to visit a hospital.
Because boas are constrictor snakes, if the snake bites you as a result of mistaking you for prey (which is highly unlikely), the snake will coil the part of your body it bit. Hopefully, with help, simply unwrap the snake and unhook its teeth from your skin. Constricting is not a method of defense; a boa defending itself will strike repeatedly and often hiss very loudly.
My recommendation is to stay well out of the striking range of a boa for photographing purposes. Boas don’t really move fast like most snakes, but they strike with lightning speed, and often with no notice. I believe it is also against the law to harass any Belizean wildlife, and there is no excuse to do so.
Possibly the largest and longest boa I have ever found.
I couldn’t disturb the snake for measuments because she just ate.
Bonus Chapter – How to Safely Remove a Boa Constrictor from Your Chicken Coop or Property
If you live in Belize, it’s likely only a matter of time before you have to remove a boa from your property or chicken coop. Most boas I have come across are about five feet long, so not too difficult to handle. Unlike most snakes that are always moving (fast), in most boa encounters, the boa will be coiled up in an odd-shaped ball.
A boa that got into my chicken coop and ate a young chicken.
Because the snake had just eaten and I had an empty hen house,
I gently moved the snake to the empty hen house to digest her new meal in peace for about 4 days before relocating her.
I don’t like getting bit any more than anyone else. The trick is to take a pillowcase and drape it over the snake’s head. If the snake is moving, often this is enough to stop them. It also gives them something else to strike at, instead of your body.
Steps for Safely Covering and Securing a Boa Constrictor’s Head:
- Preparation:
Use a blanket or pillowcase. A pillowcase is the ideal size and fabric thickness.
Ensure the blanket or pillowcase is large enough to cover the snake’s head fully but not too heavy to impede handling. - Approach:
Slowly approach the boa from behind, staying out of its striking range.
Avoid sudden movements to minimize stress on the snake. - Covering the Head:
Place the blanket or pillowcase over the snake’s head in one motion.
Ensure the blanket or pillowcase fully covers the snake’s head, including its eyes, to block its vision and calm it.
The rest of the snake’s body should remain exposed for visibility. - Securing:
With my hand flat, I move my hand over the top of the blanket or pillowcase gently feeling for the head.
I very carefully secure its neck directly behind its head. - Handling Safely:
Once you have its head secure, with your free hand, pick it up about mid-body.
It’s important the snake feels supported. The snake will likely wrap its tail around your arm as you lift it, which is natural.
It’s no different than wrapping its tail around a tree branch. If the snake feels secure, there shouldn’t be any struggle.
Notice the mouth open – this is not a happy snake
If you only need to walk the snake a short distance, do that. When you get to its release location, set its body on the ground, and make sure the snake is no longer wrapped around any of your body parts before you release the head. If you release its head prematurely, you might get yourself into some trouble. When you are ready, release the body, and then less than a second later, release the head and step back safely, but as quickly as possible. At that moment, the snake will likely instantly pull back into some kind of ball and, most importantly, pull its head back from you.
If you need to transport the snake some distance to a safer place, well away from your chicken coops, the best way to transport a snake is in a pillowcase, not a box or bucket. In a pillowcase, the snake will remain very calm and capable of moving inside the pillowcase without being injured or escaping (as long as the pillowcase is knotted up). And you would be surprised at how well a pillowcase will hold even a large snake. Pillowcases are how pet snakes are shipped all around the world.
The snake will be fine in the pillowcase for as long as necessary, for the time it takes to relocate it. Just keep the bag out of direct sun. On the off chance the snake has just eaten a meal (such as a chicken), moving the snake too much or upsetting the snake will likely cause it to regurgitate its meal. Kind of like you eating a full meal and then going on a rollercoaster. It’s very stressful on the snake, please be gentle.
The best way to transport a snake for relocation
Boas ready for relocation
Conclusion – or Just in Time as the Snake Tail Disappears from This Post
The Boa Constrictor of Belize represents more than just another species in the country’s rich biodiversity – it’s a living link to ancient Maya culture and a vital part of the modern ecosystem. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, researcher, or curious tourist, I still love running across them. Remember to observe them responsibly and support local conservation efforts!
If you are interested in more photos of the flora and fauna of Belize check out my Flora & Fana Page
If you are interested in a jungle living lifestyle check out my guide HERE
