Photos by Robert Goodman

Scientific name: Charina bottae umbratica

Common name: Southern Rubber Boa

Size: 11.8-17.3 in (30-44 cm)

Distinguishing characters: A heavy-bodied snake with smooth, shiny scales that look and feel like rubber; small eyes with vertically oval pupils; large plate-like scales on top of head; olive-green, buff, or tan dorsum with contrasting yellowish or cream venter; subcaudal scales undivided; tail blunt, with shield-like scale at tip.

Juveniles: Generally lighter; pink or tan dorsum and light yellow to pink venter.

Dimorphism: Anal spurs well developed in the male, small or absent in the female.

Similar species: Lichanura trivirgata: Lacks enlarged scales on top of head and has enlarged chin scales; also has three dorsal stripes and mottled venter.

Additional notes: Often rolls body into ball concealing head when handled or injured. A secretive species that is seldom observed in the open. Generally associated with rocky outcrops in coniferous forests.

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