Boa constrictors strike when they perceive a threat. Their bite can be painful, especially from large snakes, but is rarely dangerous to humans. Specimens from Central America are more irascible, hissing loudly and striking repeatedly when disturbed, while those from South America tame down more readily.

Is it dangerous to own a boa constrictor?

Large snakes are generally not considered to be good pets for small children. An adult boat constrictor can easily overpower a child. Such a snake may bite if startled or mishandled. While boas are not poisonous, the bite can do damage in its own right.

Has a boa constrictor killed anyone?

Large Constrictor Snake Attacks

Seventeen people have died from constrictor snake related incidents in the United States since 1978, including one person who suffered a heart attack during a violent struggle with his python and a woman who died from a Salmonella infection.