Are Pet Constrictor Snakes Dangerous?

While different types of constrictor snakes can be strong enough to kill a human, they don't necessarily have the motivation to do so. Constrictor snakes are, then, technically dangerous -- they have killed their human owners in the past. However, much like other types of pet ownership, you assume the responsibility for properly caring for your constrictor. Just like with a large, strong dog, you have to care for your snake and handle him carefully, or else you could be at the wrong end of an attack.

  1. The Constrictor's Nature

    • Constrictor snakes get their name because of how they kill and consume their prey. A constrictor wraps his strong body around his prey, slowly squeezing it until it can no longer breathe. Typically, after making the kill, the constrictor then swallows his prey whole and begins a lengthy digestion process. According to the Humane Society of the United States, between 1978 and May 2013, constrictor snakes have killed 17 people in the U.S. and seriously injured many more. As a matter of the snake's simple nature, then, he is inherently dangerous to own as a pet.

    Careful Handling

    • Like other pets, the way that you handle a constrictor snake can make him significantly more likely to attack you. For example, if you smell like a prey animal (rodents, for example), your constrictor's instinct could compel him to attack you. Snakes generally do not have very good vision, instead using scent to identify prey -- he can easily confuse owner and animal, then, if you smell like a meal. If you are interested in owning a constrictor snake, carefully research the best methods for safely handling him.

    Respecting Humans

    • Some constrictor snakes may be more dangerous to own than others, depending on where they come from. For example, if a boa constrictor comes from a breeder that regularly handles the snakes and has gone through several generations, the snakes are conditioned to trust and interact with humans. Humans are generally larger than a boa constrictor's typical prey and as such are not frequently targeted by them as potential meals.

    Maintaining the Environment

    • The danger posed by a pet constrictor snake is closely related to the environment you provide for him. For example, if you don't feed him enough, he may instinctively adopt a need to hunt for food. Similarly, if you do not expose him to routine, discipline and boundaries -- like keeping him locked in a secure, sturdy enclosure -- the balance of power in your relationship can become confused, and he will not necessarily respect your authority. When a constrictor is allowed to roam free or isn't properly cared for, he's more likely to lash out and attack.