Animal Type

Snake

Breed

Common Boa Constrictor

Introduction

Boa imperator is a wide-ranging species, living in both Central America and the northern parts of South America. As a result, the appearance of this snake varies greatly depending on the specific locality. As one of the smaller Boa species, they average between 4.2 ft. and 8.2 ft. in length when fully grown, but have been known to reach 12 ft. They usually weigh around 13 lb, although females are significantly larger than males. Lifespan in the wild is around 20–30 years, but 40 can be exceeded in captivity. These snakes are nocturnal, which means that they are most active at night.

Difficulty

Intermediate

Difficulty Notes

Boa imperator is one of the most common snakes kept in captivity; this is mainly due to their calm dispositions, impressive size potential and variety of color and pattern choices. It can be a little diffcult to read their body language if you are inexperienced. Captive common boas often tolerate being handled for extended periods.

Basking Temp

80-90

Ambient Temp

80-90

Lowest Temp

75-80

Temp Notes

Boas do best when there is a temperature gradient in their enclosure. Make sure to provide a hot end and cold end so that they can sel regulate thier own temperature.

Diet

Carnivore

Diet Notes

As a general rule, a meal should weigh no more than 10% of your boa’s weight, or no larger than the widest part of the snake’s body. In the first year it is best to feed weekly, but as the snake gets older its metabolism slows down and you will need to increase the time between feeding up to 4-6 weeks for an adult. This will need to be adjusted to your specific snake to maintain a healthy weight.

UVA Intensity

Tropical

UVB Intensity

Low/Occasional

Ferguson Zone

2

Lighting Notes

While they are nocturnal, they may bask during the day when night-time temperatures are too low.

Enclosure Size

Large Semi-Arborial

Enclosure Notes

As semi-arboreal snakes, young Boa imperator may climb into trees and shrubs to forage; however, they become mostly terrestrial as they become older and heavier.

Substrate

Coco Chips

Substrate Notes

It’s extremely absorbent, fluffy, holds moisture well, and cheap. Plus it’s much more eco-friendly than peat.

Humidity

High (70-100%)

Humidity Notes

While boas can tollerate higher humidity for short periods of time, it can lead to resperatory infection. A target humidity on the lower side near 70% is ideal with periods of higher humidty durring shedding.