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Hispaniolan boa facts for kids

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Hispaniolan boa
Стройный удав Гродно.JPG
A captive Chilabothrus striatus in a terrarium
Conservation status
Scientific classification
Genus:
Chilabothrus
Species:
striatus
Synonyms
  • Homalochilus striatus
    J.G. Fischer, 1856
  • Epicrates striatus
    — Steindachner, 1864
  • Chilabothrus striatus
    — Reynolds et al., 2013

The Hispaniolan boa (scientific name: Chilabothrus striatus) is a type of snake. It belongs to the family called Boidae. This family includes many large snakes like pythons and anacondas. This special snake only lives on the island of Hispaniola. This island is shared by two countries: Haiti and the Dominican Republic. You might sometimes see these boas sold as pets around the world.

Types of Hispaniolan Boas

Стройный удав Гродно
This close-up shows the Hispaniolan boa's vertical pupil. This eye shape helps them see well in low light.

Scientists have found three different types, or subspecies, of the Hispaniolan boa. A subspecies is like a special group within a species. These groups often live in different areas and might have small differences in their looks or habits.

  • Chilabothrus striatus exagistus is known as the Tiburon Peninsula boa.
  • Chilabothrus striatus striatus is often called the Hispaniolan or Dominican red mountain boa.
  • Chilabothrus striatus warreni is found on Tortuga Island.

Naming the Boa

The name warreni for one of the subspecies is a special way to honor someone. It was named after a person named C. Rhea Warren. She was a scientist who collected many animal specimens, including reptiles, on Île de la Tortue. This island is also known as Tortuga Island.

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