Dumeril's Ground

DUMERIL’S GROUND BOA Common Names: Dumeril’s ground boa Class: Reptilia Order: Squamata Family: Boidae Sub Family: Boinae Latin name: Acrantophis dumerili Habitat/Range: These snakes are native to Madagascar and Mascarene Islands (off the southeast coast of Africa). They are mainly terrestrial with the juveniles being more able and willing to climb. This is an adaptable species occurring in a wide variety of habitats, from humid rainforests to savannas, woodlands, and grasslands (drier regions). They are most likely to be found near rivers and streams. They usually spend the daylight hours sheltering in mammal burrows, fallen logs, or piles of debris. Description: They are mid-sized, but heavy bodied snakes. One source describes them as having grey and brown bands with black markings. Another states they are a rich, reddish brown mixed with grey. They resemble the common boa (but not as large). The dorsal patterns are evenly shaped and outlined in black or brown. This species rarely exceeds six feet, and a six foot one would be an extremely large individual.. Diet: These snakes constrict their prey, causing death by either suffocation or breaking of blood vessels. They feed on small mammals and birds. Reproduction: These snakes give live birth to 6-9 babies that have hatched inside the mother’s body after a gestation period of 4-8 months. The mother takes no care of the young. Several males will mate with one female. The babies are 16 inches to 19 inches at birth. Sexual maturity occurs about 3 years of age. Life Span: The best estimate is 15-20+ years in the wild. The record in captivity was close to 30 years. Perils: These animals are threatened mainly by deforestation due to human population growth and agricultural and industrial development. Other contributing factors include the use of snakeskin in fashion, the pet trade, pollution, and the loss of their food supply. Natural predators include hawks that prey on juveniles. Protection: Hibernating during the dry, cool months (May-July) helps protect them from adverse weather conditions. Their cryptic coloration helps them hide from natural 7/07 predators and man. There are few predators (other than man) in Madagascar that can provide a challenge to an adult specimen. Interesting Facts: This species has been on the endangered list since 1977. It is currently managed as an AZA SSP in North America. They are nocturnal in their hunting habits or crepuscular (morning and evening), hunting mainly in the early morning. References: Ferrand, John Jr., Ed. The Audubon Society Encyclopedia of Animal Life. NY: Portland House, 1987. Mattison, Chris. The Encyclopedia of Snakes. NY: Facts on File, 1995. Mattison, Chris. Keeping and Breeding Snakes. UK: Blandford Press, 1996. Glaw, Frank & Miguel Vences. Field Guide to the Amphibians & Reptiles of Madagascar. Germany: Moos Drucjk, Leverkusen, Publisher, 1994. Mehrtens, John M. Living Snakes of the World. New York: Sterling Publishing Co., Inc., 1987. Lincoln Park Zoo, Britannica.com. 7/07 .

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