Como Zoo's Emerald Tree Boas are one
year old! Twenty neonates were born in January 2013 from
the same parents who had offspring in 2011. Emerald tree boas are born brick red
and start changing color around 6-9 months of age; with red becoming orange and
eventually green; a process called ontogenesis. The white markings do not
change from juvenile to adulthood. Many species of snakes have
different color phases as they age.
These boas are arboreal and native to the tropical rainforests of South America. Their “emerald” green coloration provides perfect camouflage during adult years when they are found in the canopy of the rainforest. The reddish juvenile coloration is thought to provide camouflage in the lower part of the rainforest where it is darker and shadowy. Juvenile emeralds find protection from predators and abundant food in the lower forest areas. As they mature (and change color), they will move higher into the rainforest's upper canopy.
The pictures show their newborn coloration, 8-9 month transition phase, and adult coloration now at one year old. Happy 1st Birthday Emeralds!
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| Red coloration of neonates |
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| 8-9 months old coloration |
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| Adult coloration |
