Eryx – Old World sand boas

These snakes are distinguished by their robust and muscular builds, which allow them to move through soil and sand with surprising agility. Unlike the elongated bodies of many snake species, Eryx snakes are compact and have a stout, cylindrical form with a short tail, which aids in their burrowing lifestyle.

The head of an Eryx snake is broad and somewhat flattened, well-adapted for pushing aside the earth. Their eyes are small, a feature that helps to protect them from the abrasive sand and dirt of their underground tunnels. The placement of their nostrils is also a thoughtful touch by nature, positioned on top of the snout to facilitate breathing when the rest of the body is submerged in the substrate.

In terms of size, Eryx snakes are relatively small, especially when compared to other heavy-bodied snakes. This smaller size is an evolutionary advantage in the tight confines of the burrows they navigate. It allows them to occupy a unique niche within their ecosystems, where their burrowing habits aerate the soil and help to control populations of the small mammals and reptiles they prey upon.

When it comes to feeding, Eryx snakes are patient and strategic hunters. They will often station themselves near the entrances of burrows, a prime location to encounter rodents and other small creatures. With stealth and precision, they seize their prey, utilizing their powerful muscular contractions to constrict and immobilize it. This hunting method is effective and energy-efficient, allowing the snakes to conserve their resources in environments where food may not be consistently abundant.