(Corallus hortulanus)

Characterized by its general grayish coloring, with rhomboidal designs on the body and small oval marks on the sides. This design pattern, however, is variable. Yellow individuals have been observed. Size variation does not make it more difficult to identify this species, at least for adults. They can reach 2m in length. They have a fine body, a large head and a well-defined body.

• Feeding: they feed on rodents and small birds. If they refuse food, hold the food by a tweezers and shake it in front of the snake, until it is swallowed.

• Captivity: this is a tree species, a typical inhabitant of humid forests. It needs a high terrarium, that is well planted and with branches. The humidity should be around 50%. The terrarium should also contain a large recipient of water for a bath. The average temperature should be maintained between 25 ºC and 27 ºC. Although it remains immobile for a long time in a position as does the Corallus caninus, the suaçubóia moves more and in general is larger, for which reason it is good to keep them in high and long terrariums, for the comfort of the animals, principally in the reproductive period, when there is considerable movement.

• Precaution: They are obstinate biters and any handling with the animal, even in the enclosure, should be done with caution, because they can lunge at the face of whomever is handling them. For this reason, it is a good idea to have a double screen to cover the terrarium, with the outside metal and the inside nylon, to avoid damage to the animal's mouth.