Rosy Boa
Lichanura trivirgata
Class
Reptilia
Order
Squamata
Family
Boidae
Rosy Boa
Range
Southern California, southwestern Arizona, to northwestern Mexico
Size
Length: Avg. 1.5 - 3 ft
Weight: 11 - 21 oz.
Habitat
Rocky desert canyons, ridges, and hills, often near desert springs
Young
Up to 13
Diet
Small rodents, lizards, and birds
IUCN Status
Least Concern
Coloration
The rosy boa's body coloration is pale tan to gray with three deep chocolate brown to reddish brown stripes. It is a small, heavy-bodied snake. Its small head is not distinct from the neck, and it has a blunt tail.
Behavior
This snake is most active at dusk and at night; in cooler regions it also comes out during the day. The rosy boa will roll itself into a ball with its head in the center to protect itself from predators. It will also release a foul-smelling musk from a gland in its tail.
Reproduction
This species gives live birth to up to 13 young from mid August to early October.