Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I noticed something about the general head shape on some BCI being longer more like a spear shape and other having a short stubby head. I first noticed it when I used to help around a reptile store and the owner had two double het sunglows with extremely different headshapes. Is there a way to tell what local of BCI you have by the headshape/pattern?
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My Photobucket

I know that in some lines of the hypo/salmon boas, you see a more blunt nose/head shape. I think in general, it can be quite variable in litters.
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'There is a very fine line between "hobby" and "mental illness."' -Rainshadow

You generally see a range because of mixed lineage.

Wild populations and pure captive localities do have differences in head structure. A large difference exists on the subspecies level, just take a look at a head shot of an adult health Occidentalis, Constrictor, Imperator, and Amarali. You'll see differences.

Some of the BCI Morphs have differently shaped heads, seems to be a by product of the mutation.
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http://www.GilbertBoas.com/
http://www.BoaList.com/

Here's my theory -- form as a function of environment.

I've noticed a narrower snout in the smaller more arboreal Central American forms. The narrower snout allows for better forward looking binocular vision, for depth perception. To actively pursue lizards and things in the trees more efficiently.
I've also noticed an overall lighter weight, thinner and narrower body form in general with more pronounced lateral compression for improved agility among the branches.

The ground dwellers tend to be more robust and stouter, overall. A more sedate lifestyle, securing meals with an ambush style of predation.

Basin Bcc tend to have the snorkel-like snout. Their environment may at times be inundated seasonally for months at a time.

jsc
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"As hard as I've tried, just can't NOT do this"
John Crickmer