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 15^ inches. 



Length of Tail 2\ 



Greatest Diameter " 



WidthofHead f " 



LengthofHead ft 



Distribution. 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 Boida. 



319 



