Erycinae

The Erycinae are a subfamily of nonvenomous, constricting snakes, commonly known as sand boas. These snakes are characterized by their stout, cylindrical bodies, blunt heads, and short tails. They are live-bearers, meaning they give birth to live young rather than laying eggs.1

Erycines are typically found in arid and semiarid regions of Asia, India, Africa, and North America. They are often subterranean, preying on small mammals and lizards. Most species measure less than 70 cm (28 inches) in length. An example is the sand boa, which is a small, burrowing snake found in the sandy regions of Africa and Asia.12