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Boa Constrictor
Scientific Name: Boa constrictor
Subfamily: Boinae
Length: 3meters (10ft)
Description These snakes are popular vivarium occupants, and invariably thrive, providing they are not exposed to low temperatures. In the wild, Boa Constrictors spend much of their time in trees and similar vegetation and thus need a relatively tall vivarium with plenty of climbing space. Most boas in good health will take dead food without difficulty. Boa Constrictors are long-lived snakes; records suggest that they may live for more than 40 years.
Range Central and South America.
Habitat and Habits In the wild, this species prefers dry areas of open woodland, rocky slopes and scrubland. It is an excellent climber but tends to avoid water. Adult specimens can be at times untrustworthy and should be handled with care as they can give an unpleasant bite. Mainly nocturnal.
Pros and Cons Although a very popular snake with the terrarium keeper, it tends to be less stable in temperament as it ages. This is a factor that should be always considered if purchased when young. Contrary to common belief, this species is not such a giant when compared with other boids; however, specimens with a length of 4m (13ft) have been known.
Housing A large terrarium with strong climbing branches and rock ledges and a large water bath.
Heating and Lighting Daytime temperature at around 24-28°C and about 20-22°C at night. Fluorescent lighting & Medium humidity.
Feeding Rodents, white mice, day old chicks to chickens and rabbits.
Sex Differences Males have bigger spurs than the females.
Breeding Healthy boas will usually start to breed once they reach about 1.5m (5ft.) in length, although success may vary from year to year. Before mating, the male uses his spurs to stimulate the female. The spurs are remnants of the hind limbs and are also present in pythons as well as in boas. Live young are born about 6months after mating and are able to take mice without difficulty.