It is a fairly common snake, living in environments ranging from moderately arid to subtropical, but always well-forested. The common boa is one of the larger constrictors. Females are larger than males. The average length falls between 6 and 11 feet. It is a thick, muscular snake that is both arboreal and terrestrial.
Primary colors are brown, tan and maroon.
Data shows that a healthy common boa can live 30-40 years. They are mostly bred in captivity and even neonates and juveniles are calm and not likely to bite. They do have a strong feeding response, which is sometimes taken for aggression. Most common boa species require both arboreal and terrestrial space. A 6' high by 5' long by 3' deep enclosure is a good size.