Tuesday, March 28, 2023

Mira the BCL

            The Peruvian long-tailed boa is a semi-dwarf locality of boa constrictor endemic to the Tumes province of northern Peru. Akin to the common boa constrictors (Boa Constrictor Constrictor and Boa Constrictor Imperator) the Boa constrictor longicauda, or "BCL", is an opportunistic ambush predator. As a semi-dwarf subspecies BCLs may reach a maximum of 6-7ft long. They are more suited to an arboreal lifestyle with a leaner body shape and smaller overall size, juvenile BCLs will spend most of their time high up in the canopy where they are less vulnerable to predation. As in other localities of boa constrictor, sexual dimorphism is present with the females growing larger than the males. Their lifespan is 20-30 years in the wild and potentially 40 years in captivity. BCLs are nocturnal animals that tend to sleep in a hidden and secure spot throughout the day. 

            Pictured on the right is Mira, a captive BCL.

As of September 2nd Mira is a 3 year old BCL and she is approaching 4-4.5 feet long. She displays a calm but cautious temperament and an inquisitive nature. Mira was initially nervous while handling but after growing a bit larger she has become quite outgoing and loves to investigate then climb anyone she meets.