Emerald Tree Boa (Guyana Form)

Corallus caninus
Common Name: Guyana Emerald Tree Boa

Species Overview

• Size: Adults typically reach 5–7 feet (1.5–2.1 m), with females usually larger and more robust than males.

• Appearance: Guyana emerald tree boas are typically bright emerald-green with irregular white or yellow vertebral markings along the back. Unlike Basin emerald tree boas, their dorsal markings are usually broken or patchy rather than continuous, giving them a more scattered pattern. Their build is also slimmer and more gracile compared to the stocky Basin form.

• Distribution: Found in Guyana and surrounding regions of northeastern South America.

• Habitat: Arboreal, inhabiting humid lowland forests, swamp margins, and dense jungle canopies.

• Behaviour: Ambush predators that coil on branches in the classic emerald boa posture, striking at passing prey. They feed primarily on birds, small mammals, and reptiles. Mostly nocturnal.

Captive Care

• Enclosure: Provide a vertically oriented enclosure with sturdy horizontal perches. A 3–4′ tall enclosure with at least 4′ × 2′ floor space is suitable for adults. Include cork bark, foliage, and climbing branches.

• Temperature & Humidity: Maintain daytime temperatures of 78–82°F (25–28°C) with a mild basking zone around 85–86°F (29–30°C). Night drops to 74–76°F (23–24°C) are beneficial. Humidity should remain 70–90%, with regular misting and strong ventilation to prevent stagnant, damp conditions.

• Diet: Juveniles should be fed appropriately sized rodents every 10–14 days; adults every 21–28 days. While wild individuals may consume birds, rodents are standard in captivity.

• Behaviour in Captivity: Guyana emerald tree boas are often more defensive than Basin forms, relying on striking when disturbed. They are best maintained as display animals, with handling kept to a minimum.

• Special Considerations: Sensitive to poor environmental balance—particularly humidity and airflow. Incorrect conditions can quickly lead to respiratory or skin issues.

Locality Note

The Guyana emerald tree boa represents the northern form of Corallus caninus. Compared to the Amazon Basin form, they are generally smaller, slimmer, and display broken dorsal markings instead of a solid white stripe. Their striking colouration and more affordable availability make them popular, though they are often considered less docile and more defensive than Basin emeralds.