The boa constrictor is one of the few animals whose common name is identical to its scientific name.

Boa constrictors inhabit almost all of South America, with the exception of Chile and some of Argentina.

They have thrived as a species: the IUCN classifies them as “Least Concern.”

Boa constrictors are solitary creatures and typically encounter other boa constrictors only when they’re ready to mate.

They feed on a wide variety of prey; there are reports of them consuming large animals such as armadillos, monkeys, and ocelots.

While it was once thought that boas only suffocate their prey, it now appears more likely that they kill by cutting off blood flow, causing the heart and brain to fail.

Female boa constrictors do not lay eggs; they give birth to live young.

In captivity, boa constrictors typically live 20 to 30 years, although one individual reached 40 years of age.

Tragically, boa constrictors are among the most commonly killed snakes for their skins.

They possess specialized infrared sensors that allow them to detect warm-blooded animals even in complete darkness.

Some female boa constrictors can reproduce via parthenogenesis, giving birth without mating.

Boa constrictors are excellent swimmers; flooded areas and bodies of water pose no significant obstacle to them.