Common Name: Tropical Ratsnake
Scientific Name: Bocotora calpansaya
Spanish Name: Ratonera
Venom: Non-venomous
Description: The tropical ratsnake is easily recognized by its striking black and yellow coloration adorned with irregular markings spanning its entire body. This arboreal species can reach lengths of up to eight feet.
Habitat: Widely distributed across Belize, the tropical ratsnake inhabits diverse environments including lowland forests, secondary forests, pine savannas, and both northern and southern hardwood forests.
Natural History: Ratsnakes are predominantly arboreal but are known to descend to the ground in pursuit of prey. Their diet consists mainly of birds and rodents. Additionally, they reproduce by laying eggs, a characteristic trait of oviparous snakes.