Charina bottae

Rubber Boa

Identification/Variations: The only boa constrictor in the Pacific Northwest, the Rubber Boa is a seldom-seen snake that is a gray or brown color. While the coloring of this animal is similar to the Racer, the Racer is a sleek and speedy snake while Rubber Boas are much more docile and sluggish.

Range/Habitat: Rubber Boas are found throughout Oregon and Washington except in the higher elevations of the Cascade Mountains and along the Pacific coastline. They range north into southwest British Columbia as well. They make do in many environments, but seem to prefer areas of sun that border areas of shade. This allows them to heat up or cool down easily.

Notes: Rubber Boas spend so much time underground they are seldom seen by humans and until recently were believed to be quite rare. More recent data has shown that these snakes are quite common, but are not found easily.