I wouldn't be surprised if a boa hit glass hard enough to seriously injure itself. I've seen Rauri's power in his strike and I have seen him miss and smack glass. Although he's not injured himself, it's awful to have it happen and he generally will refuse to continue hunting. I'm sure it's painful and he's never hit glass hard really but still...ouch!

Lars, I'd encourage these folks to call that vet. Lots of vets will work with people on reasonable methods of payment. If they truly cannot afford even basic care for this snake, perhaps it's best they find a rescue situation that can as the snake's need for medical attention must come first. Please let us know how this turns out.

Here's a link that shows how a snake's jaw is constructed with the bottom jaw unfused and the quadrate bones at the hinge (all part of the ability to open up so wide). It's not specific to RTB's but I hope it's helpful.

http://www.peteducation.com/article....articleid=2974