Madagascar’s wildlife, including the Dumeril’s ground boa, is suffering from habitat loss as forests are converted into lands suitable for grazing and agricultural use. The boa’s survival is in danger also from hunting out of fear, superstition, and for their skins. The Zoo participates in a captive breeding program for the threatened ground predator.
Dumeril’s Ground Boa
Boa dumerili
Fact File
Where to see them: Reptile House
Length: 4 to 6.5 ft
Venomous: Non-venomous
Habitat: Dry forest
Diet: Small mammals, birds, lizards, and frogs
Risk Status: Species at Risk (IUCN—Vulnerable)
Among the Leaves: The Dumeril’s boa’s black and brown coloring enables it to hide among the leaf litter on the forest floor.
90-Second Naturalist 
