Ben StegengaViews:
Happy Lunar New Year!
Today marks the beginning of the Year of the Wood Snake, and The Orianne Society is excited to celebrate by highlighting a fascinating group of snakes sometimes referred to as “wood snakes”—the Tropidophis genus. These small, secretive snakes are also known as tropes, pygmy boas, or Caribbean Dwarf Boas, though they are not closely related to true boas.
The majority of Tropidophis species are found across the West Indies, with a few also occurring in Ecuador, Peru, and Brazil. The largest species, pictured here, is the Cuban Dwarf Boa or Cuban Wood Snake (Tropidophis melanurus), which grows to just about three feet in length and is endemic to Cuba. Despite their small size, these snakes have remarkable adaptations. Most species prey on frogs and lizards, using their brightly colored tail tips as caudal lures to attract unsuspecting prey.
When threatened, dwarf boas rarely bite. Instead, they curl into a tight ball, hiding their heads within their coils—a behavior similar to some other small snake species. If that isn’t enough to deter a predator, they have an even more dramatic defense: autohemorrhaging. Some species will secrete blood from their eyes and nostrils, turning their eyes red in the process!
Another unique trait of these snakes is their ability to change color. During the day, they tend to be darker shades of gray or brown, helping them retain heat. At night, however, their scales become significantly lighter, often appearing silvery—an adaptation believed to aid in nighttime activity.
No matter which common name you prefer, wood snakes are a perfect example of the incredible diversity and adaptability of snakes worldwide. As we welcome the Year of the Snake, we invite you to join us in our mission to research, restore habitats, and raise awareness about the critical role snakes play in ecosystems.
Happy New Year, and may this year bring a greater appreciation for these amazing reptiles!
