Boa Constrictor Ssslithers in to Perth Zoo Vet Hospital

A rescued boa constrictor has ssslithered in to the Perth Zoo veterinary hospital where he underwent a full health check to ensure he is in spectacular health.

Rico is a super sized snake measuring 2.5m (8.2ft) long and weighing in at 10kg. He has called Perth Zoo home since 2008 when he was rescued from the illegal wildlife trade as a pet. Now he occupies a warm habitat at the zoo’s Reptile Encounter where he serves as an ambassador for his wild cousins.

While he was placed under a general anaesthetic the boa constrictor was given a full work up including thorough checks of his overall body condition and mobility, took X-rays from head to tail, drew blood samples and took swabs for viral testing.

The routine confirmed that for his age he is in perfect health and he was quickly returned to his habitat.

Boa constrictors are a species of snake found in South America where they constrict their prey rather than using a venom to subdue it. They can reach lengths of between 1.5 and 4m long with females being longer than males.