It was once considered conspecific with the Nosy Komba ground boa (Sanzinia volontany).

This means that a population reduction of at least 20% has been observed, estimated, inferred or suspected over the last 10 years or three generations, whichever is the longer, based on a decline in area of occupancy, extent of occurrence and/or quality of habitat, and based on actual or potential levels of exploitation.

[7] It is now listed as Least Concern (LC) as it is widespread, present in heavily degraded habitats and it is not subject to any known or suspected threats.

[5] Ovoviviparous, females give birth to up to 12 young at a time, each about 15 inches (38 cm) in length.

After giving birth, the color returns to normal as soon as the female next sheds her skin.