Behavior
Boa constrictors are solitary animals, and will only associate with conspecifics to mate. They are nocturnal; however, they may bask during the day when night-time temperatures are too low. As semi-arboreal snakes, young boa constrictor individuals may climb into trees and shrubs to forage; however, they become mostly terrestrial as they become older and heavier. Boa constrictors will strike when threatened, and will bite in defense. This bite can be painful, especially from large snakes, but is rarely dangerous. However, care must be taken to ensure that infection does not result from the injury. Specimens from Central America are more irascible, hissing loudly and striking repeatedly when disturbed, while those from South America tame down more readily. Like all snakes, Boa constrictors that are in a shed cycle will be more unpredictable. This is because the substance that lubricates between the old skin and the new will make the eyes appear "milky", blue, or "opaque", and as such the snake cannot see very well. This will cause it to be more defensive than it may be otherwise.
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