A Guide to the Amphibians
and Reptiles of California

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Rosy Boas found in California

Not Dangerous (Non-poisonous) Rosy Boas do not have venom that is dangerous to most humans.
Rosy boas are thick-bodied slow-moving snakes of deserts and rocky shrublands in southern California. They are most often active at night, and in the evening. Rosy boas are commonly found crossing roads at night or underneath rocks in late winter and spring. Recently, two species have been identified. The only way to tell them apart is by range. The Rosy Boa occurs only in extreme southwestern San Diego County. Traditionally, two subspecies occur in California - the Coastal Rosy Boa and the Desert Rosy Boa. The former ranges of these subspecies, which are still used by many, can be seen at the bottom of the page..

	Rosy Boa Lichanura orcutti
		© Brian Hinds


Red: Lichanura orcutti - Rosy Boa
Former subspecies of Rosy Boas

Red: Lichanura trivirgata trivirgata - Desert Rosy Boa Orange: Lichanura trivirgata roseofusca - Coastal Rosy Boa