Boa constrictors have neither fangs nor venom, but are very effective killers. They're often thought of as one of the world's largest snakes, but they're actually comparatively modest in size, reaching 2-3 metres long when fully grown. Suspended from branches in the Central and South American forests, they ambush unsuspecting animals as they pass by. Coiling around their prey, they literally squeeze the life out, before swallowing the body whole. To digest this meal fully can take up to six days. Boa constrictors give birth to live young that are fully developed and ready to go within minutes.

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