The prey is then swallowed head first. The feeding habits of the very young are unknown. This species exists only in Puerto Rico. Although no population estimates are available, a series of casual observations were made during the period of 1972 to 1977. The young were released after birth because of a lack of knowledge concerning their prey requirements.
Reproduction presumably occurs once a year.
The forested limestone hill area seems to be the boa's preferred habitat. The boas utilize ground level retreats for sleeping during the day, and apparently hunt most of their prey in nearby trees at night. Historic records, some dating back to the 17OO's, indicate that during the first few centuries of Spanish colonization in Puerto Rico the boa was relatively abundant, and oil produced from the snake's fat was utilized extensively as an export. Impacts to the boa resulting from the oil trade were undoubtedly heightened by a concurrent reduction of habitat. Deforestation of the island began during this period and continued until, by the early 19OO's, very little natural forest remained.