Boa Constrictor (Boa Constrictor)

A pair of albino Boa constrictor snakes measuring 1.5-2m long and worth $10K each have been seized from a property near Ballarat in Victoria’s west during a recent search warrant lead by the Department of Energy, Environment & Climate Action (DEECA). The seizure of these animals is closely linked to a large illegal trade network in exotic animals uncovered within Victoria and across Australia. Most likely a breeding pair, the boa constrictors were selectively bred to display albinism which is a lack of melanin pigment in the animal’s skin. The unique colour morphs that result from this selective breeding are highly valued in the illegal pet trade. Intelligence suggests that the breeding and trading of Boa constrictors is occurring in Victoria.

The boa constrictor is a large, non-venomous species native to South America and the Caribbean.

Historically, Boa constrictors have been seized from the illegal pet trade in Victoria where they are kept illegally, bred in captivity, and traded on the black market. The boa constrictor is not native to Australia and if given the opportunity could populate a wide range of landscapes within Victoria impacting our native species.

Animals that are imported illegally present major disease risks because they are not subject to quarantine, disease control and regulation. These diseases can have devastating effects on native animal populations, household pets and even humans. Boa constrictors are known carriers of diseases such as ranavirus and sunshine virus which may impact our native wildlife. Boa constrictors are also vulnerable to Inclusion Body Disease (IBD), a fatal condition affecting all python species. This disease could easily spread to native Australian pythons, potentially leading to severe declines in their populations.

Boa constrictors are classified as Controlled Pest Animals under the Victorian Catchment & Land Protection Act 1994. The importation, keeping, and trading of this species is illegal.

If you have any information about the illegal trade of exotic species like the Boa Constrictor, please call Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000 to make an anonymous report.