The red-tailed boa is a large, non-venomous snake native to Central and South America. It is known for its distinctive coloration, featuring a pattern of reddish-brown saddles on a lighter background. These snakes can grow up to 10 feet long, although most are smaller, and they are often kept as pets due to their striking appearance and relatively docile nature. In the wild, red-tailed boas inhabit a variety of environments, including rainforests, savannas, and rocky areas. They are constrictors, meaning they subdue their prey by wrapping around it and squeezing. Their diet primarily consists of small mammals and birds, making them important predators in their ecosystems.