Pseudoboa neuwiedii, commonly known as the ratonel or ratonera (mouse-eater), is a species of snake in the family Colubridae. The species is endemic to northern South America.
The specific name, neuwiedii, is in honor of German naturalist Prince Maximilian of Wied-Neuwied.
Pseudoboa neuwiedii grows to a maximum total length (including tail) of 1 m (39 in).
Dorsally, it is reddish brown, either uniform or with some scattered small black spots. The top of the head and neck are black or dark brown. There may or may not be a yellowish crossband or collar across the temples and occiput. Ventrally, it is yellowish. This snake is venomous, but due the anatomy of its teeth it has difficulty in inoculating venom, its venom is highly proteolytic and could affect the coagulation by degrading the fibrinogen.
Pseudoboa neuwiedii is found on the mainland of South America from Colombia to The Guianas, and in Brazil along the Amazon River, as well as in Grenada, and Trinidad and Tobago.
Pseudoboa neuwiedii is a powerful constrictor.
Pseudoboa neuwiedii feeds on any animal it can capture and subdue. Individuals have been reported to consume snakes as large as or larger than they themselves are.
P. neuwiedii is oviparous.
