Acrantophis madagascariensis

Species of snake

Acrantophis madagascariensis is a species of boid snake in the subfamily Sanziniinae that is endemic to the island of Madagascar. Its common names include the Madagascar ground boa and Malagasy ground boa. Adult females can be up to 10 feet (3 m), males are typically smaller, the average size of the population is 8 feet (2 m) in length. This is the largest snake species found on the island of Madagascar. Acrantophis madagascariensis, like others in the family, dispatch their prey by constriction. The color pattern consists of a pale reddish brown ground color mixed with gray, overlaid with a pattern of dorsal rhombs outlined with black or brown. Sometimes, this creates a vague zigzag impression. The sides are patterned with a series of black ovoid markings with reddish blotches, often bordered or centered with white.

Current threats include deforestation, human population growth, agricultural and industrial development, and collection for the illegal pet trade.

The species shelters in mammal burrows, fallen trees, debris piles and similar sites that offer some protection. Brumation takes place during the cool and dry winter months, usually May though July.

The diet consists of small mammals and birds, including rodents, bats, tenrecs, lemurs, and ducks.

Mating takes place after emerging from brumation. Females may be courted by and copulate with more than one male. Ovoviviparous, females give birth to 2 4 large young after a long gestation period of 4–6 months. Neonates are in length and are already capable of feeding on small rodents and birds.