 Sandballs possess dermal armor, which is a type of bony plate that provides protection against predators. These plates are unique to the sand boa family, ericity, and have not been observed in any other snake species. Additionally, these plates are believed to be derived from ancestors of the sandballs, suggesting that they may have evolved more than once within the group. Furthermore, the presence of these plates suggests that sandballs may have benefited from increased protection when faced with predation. This article was authored by Petra Freidlova, Veronica Janovska, Jana Mrilkova, and others.