The boa constrictor, locally known as the Tet Chyenn, is harmless – that’s according to wildlife conservation officials. Citizens are reminded that upon spotting a boa in a residential area, the Forestry Department should be the first course of action as opposed to harming, or worse, killing the animal.
Piyus Haynes, Forestry Officer employed with the Department, explains that the constrictor is especially at-risk this time of year as it is presently mating.
“The boa is a protected species. The boa is fully protected by law. And it is an offense for persons to be indiscriminately killing the snakes. For example, what I saw in this video where a stone was hurled at a boa. That is an offense,” he explained.
Haynes issues a strong call to citizens, advising them to desist from killing the endangered species. “Those persons who are doing that, I’m urging them to stop the practice of hurting boas, especially at this time of year when they are most vulnerable,” he charged.
The boa ranges in length from 0.5m to 4.3m (20 inches to 14 ft). The skin appears glossy and varies from light brown as juveniles to dark brown as adults with crossbars on the back. The belly is light yellow with black spots. A brown line runs from the snout, passes through the eye and may continue along the back.
Haynes also assures citizens that the snake is harmless and nonpoisonous and reminds property owners that the Department should be contacted at the first sight of a boa. “They possess no danger, no harm to anyone. If persons encounter boas on their property, in the gardens, in the neighbourhood, in their homes and so on, at this time of year, in a group or in a cabal, please contact the Forestry Department.”
The Wildlife Protection Act of 1980 states that persons who are involved in such indiscriminate killing or harming of these species could face a fine of up to $5,000.
The boa is one of four species of snake presently found in Saint Lucia. The other three are the Saint Lucia thread snake, the Saint Lucia racer and the Saint Lucia lancehead or fer-de-lance.
