Scientific name: Charina (Lichanura) trivirgata roseofusca
Common name: Coastal Rosy Boa
Size: 22.4-35.4 in (57-90 cm)
Distinguishing characters: Heavy-bodied species with smooth, shiny scales; small eyes with vertically oval pupils; chin shields enlarged; lacks plate-like scales on top of head; bluish-grey ground color with three broad brown, orange, or reddish brown longitudinal stripes; same color mottling on interspaces; cream venter, spotted with grey; some individuals lack contrast between stripe and ground color, appearing unicolored, either reddish or silvery grey; subcaudal scales undivided.
Juveniles: Lighter ground color; contrasting dorsal pattern more distinct.
Dimorphism: Anal spurs well developed in the male; weak or absent in the female.
Additional notes: A gentle species that is easily handled; often rolls body into ball concealing head when handled or injured. Appears to be declining on coast, where it was once common. Difficult to detect, this species is often observed along roads in the late evening or early morning. Genus name for this species has recently been changed to Charina, although most people still use the name Lichanura.
More about Rosy Boa research on the Santa Margarita Ecological Reserve.
