Red/Indian Sand Boa


 Red /Indian Sand Boa 

Red Sand Boa (Eryx johnii,) commonly called the Indian Sand Boa, is a non-venomous species found throughout the dry parts of the Indian subcontinent. It is a primarily reddish-brown and thick-set snake that grows to an average length of 75 cm. Unlike most snakes, the tail is almost as thick as the body and gives the reptile the appearance of being "double-headed".

Interesting facts

• Largest of the sand boas in the world.

• Non-venomous

• Ovoviviparous

• Nocturnal and spends the majority of its time under the ground.

It is easily recognizable due to its shovel-shaped nose and a blunt tail which appears to be chopped off.

Like other snake species, the Red Sand Boa also plays a significant role in the ecosystem by maintaining a healthy population between prey and predator. It feeds on rodents, lizards, and even other snakes. 

Eryx johniiis a speciesof nonvenomous snake in the subfamilyErycinaeof the familyBoidae.Adults of E. johniirarely exceed 2 feet (61 cm) in total length (including tail), although they sometimes reach 3 feet (91 cm). Adapted to burrowing, the head is wedge-shaped with narrow nostrils and very small eyes. The body is cylindrical in shape with small polished dorsal scales. The tail, which is blunt, rounded, and not distinct from the body, appears truncated. Indian sand boas are solitary and live underground. They spend much of their time basking below the surface of the sand, with only their eyes or head exposed waiting on potential prey. When a catch approaches, sand boas erupt out of the sand, bite, and employ constriction to subdue an animal.Indian sand boas are carnivores. They feed mainly on mammals such as rats, mice, and other small rodents.



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