Species: Brazilian rainbow boa (Epicrates cenchria)
Intake Date: January 23, 2023
Caduceus is our resident Brazilian Rainbow Boa (Epicrates cenchria). She was a pet that was donated to the College of Veterinary Medicine in 2012. For 11 years, she was cared for by the Non-Traditional Species Club. On January 23, 2023, she became a Wildlife Medical Clinic ambassador when our previous snake retired from public duties. Because she has a very mild temperament and is very comfortable being around people and being handled, she makes an excellent ambassador animal. While she is not native to Illinois, she will help us educate the public and dispel the fears and misconceptions surrounding snakes and other reptiles that are Illinois natives.
Fun Facts
Brazilian Rainbow Boas are native to the forest floors of South America. They get their name from their iridescent or rainbow-hued skin, which is caused by tiny ridges on the scale surface that refract light. In most snake species, females are bigger than males. Brazilian Rainbow Boas can grow to be four to six feet in length. Caduceus, an adult female, is close to six feet long and weighs around five pounds.