Is there an easy way to distinguish the Northern water snake (Nerodia)from the Asper Boa, (Candoia aspera aspera)? When I see them in pet shops they look similar and I’m at the mercy of a clerk.
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Terry Norris, Keeper of the household Zoo
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Water Snake vs. Asper Boa
Nortz
Apr 16, 2007 04:20 PM
Replies (2)
Greg Longhurst
Apr 16, 2007 05:39 PM
Look closely at pictures of both & study the nose. The Candoia has a squared off nose, whereas the Nerodia's is rounded. Not as subtle as you might think, either. Candoia has canthus rostralis much like Dendroaspis does. If all else fails, grab one & if the bite really really hurts, it's probably Candoia.
~~Greg~~
talkinghead
Apr 17, 2007 05:07 AM
Look into their eyes. Boas have elliptical,cat-like pupils, Water Snakes pupils are round. (In general)
