The Blind Snakes and Dwarf Boas 



snake. Scales of the body very small; smooth and shining. 

 Forward portion of head with fair-sized shields. 



Colouration. — Brown, gray or olive; abdomen yellow and 

 immaculate. There is no pattern. 



Dimensions. — Total Length i^\ inches. 



Length of Tail 2{ 



Greatest Diameter ^ " 



Width of Head J " 



Length of Head || " 



Disfribufion. — The Pacific region generally, from Washing- 

 ton (inclusive) to Lower California; eastward to central Nevada. 

 This species ranges farther from the equator than any other of 

 the Boidce. 



Habits. — Several examples of this stubby little boa have 

 been under the writer's observation. They are very shy and 

 if their cage is provided with a layer of moss or sand, will at 

 once work their way into it, indicating subterraneous habits, 

 when in a wild state. Their actions are much like those dis- 

 played by the Old World sand boas (Eryx). They have a mild 

 disposition and can be handled without showing any signs of 

 hostility. Occasional specimens will contract the body into 

 a series of veritable knots and twists, and assume so spherical 

 an outline that they may be rolled about like a ball. 



As captives, these snakes are fairly hardy and will eat young 

 mice and very small birds, constricting the prey in the same 

 fashion as the giant members of the Boidce. 



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