 Snakes …. you either like them or you don't. But meeting them in person surely ask for caution and being careful. Even if they are not venomous as some snakes do look similar to each other. We'll take a closer look at the Slender tree boa and the Fer-de-Lance; for some they look like each other but in reality they differ a lot…. In general, snakes are known to be dangerous and aggressive reptiles. I used to support this theory years ago, but then I came to Kabalebo, a remote place far away from civilization. I used to be afraid of snakes, any kind. But when you decide to work far away from the city and also in a remote place surrounded by undisturbed rain forest, then there is no place for fear. In this post I will take a closer look on the Slender tree boa and the Fer-de-Lance. Keep in mind that I am still cautious and careful whenever I see a snake. This is all about my own experience and observation, for some it may differ:  The Slender Tree boa (Corallus enydris enydris) is a non venomous constrictor. I have seen this species in different kind of colors: red/orange, purple/orange and brown. They can reach a length of 200 cm and are nocturnal hunters. The Lance Head or Fer-de-Lance (Bothrops atrox) is a venomous snake. Their skin tone is in harmony with its surroundings, meaning well camouflaged. This makes it sometimes difficult to spot them immediately. Pictures above: A juvenile Slender Tree Boa and also a junevile Fer-de-Lance. The young Slender tree boa had its head tilted as it was curious and was checking its surroundings. The young Fer-de-Lance was spotted on a tree trunk, perfectly blended with its surroundings. Its 'orange' tail functions as a 'bait' distraction.   I have seen both snakes resting all coiled up. The Slender tree boa was usually found coiled up above the ground, usually in a tree or somewhere in a corner of a house. The Lance head was usually found coiled up on the ground between dry leaves or on a trunk. It was due to its appearance, perfectly camouflaged, that it is difficult to spot immediately for the untrained eye. Looking at the back of both heads you can clearly see that the Slender tree boa has a nice pattern 'drawn' on top of its head. The Fer-de-Lance's head was lacking any kind of patterns. Both have a slender neck but a closer look you can see that the Fer-de Lance's head is more pointed, similar like a lance. The Slender tree boa is also one of my favorite snakes, I wouldn't hesitate to take a close up picture of this remarkable reptile, but when there is a Fer-de lance nearby I will always keep my distance and use my tele lens to take close up pictures.   You may also like the following posts: Comments are closed.
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