The boa constrictor is a species of snake that can reach a considerable size and weight. It belongs to the Boidae family and is found in Central and South America and the Caribbean, although its survival is threatened, mainly due to the deforestation of its habitat and illegal trade.
In this article on our site we will detail with you the care of a boa constrictor, as well as other details and the most frequently asked questions. Read on and find out what you should keep in mind before bringing a boa constrictor into your home:
Preliminary details to consider
To properly care for a boa constrictor, it will be important to first take into account the specific subspecies to which it belongs, in this way, we will know what is the maximum size it can reach, the rate of growth that it usually experiences and other details about its nature that we should know.
In general, we know that boas go from measuring approximately 30 centimeters (at the time of their birth) to a much larger size, from between one and four meters length in its adult stage. However, there is evidence of a specimen that reached 5.50 meters at the San Diego Zoo, California.
Boa constrictors are solitary and crepuscular animals, that is, they are snakes that carry out their activities at night. They are also semi-arboreal, since they spend much of the day resting on the branches of trees, a place they also use to ambush their prey. Likewise, the boa constrictor also appreciates moving on the ground or in the water.
Finally we must point out that these animals are especially long-lived, being able to reach 20 or 40 years of life in captivity.
The boa constrictor terrarium
To choose a good terrarium, we must look for one that is taller than wide, this way we canadd a branch and shelter that will allow our snake to climb and hide as it would in the wild. If you can't find a suitable terrarium you can also use an aquarium.
The terrarium size will vary depending on the age of the boa constrictor:
- Children: When the boa constrictor is still a young, we can use practically any type of terrarium or aquarium. It will adapt to living without problems in one of 60 x 50 x 30 cm, but we can always get a larger one, that way we will not have to replace it when it grows.
- Jóvenes: during this stage (until they reach 1 or 2 meters in length) we can place the boa in a terrarium of about 150 x 90 x 70 cm approximately.
- Adults: Adult boas should have a terrarium of at least 300 x 100 x 70 cm. Remember that the larger the size, the better your quality of life.
Acclimation of the terrarium
For the boa to feel comfortable in its new terrarium we must acclimatize it according to its needs, mainly we will talk about temperature and humidity, two essential factors for its survival. It is highly recommended to use a Thermo-Hygrometer device, which will allow us to know at any time the level of these two factors.
The temperature of the terrarium must be between 24ºC and 26ºCand it is extremely important that it does not drop below 22ºC. To reach this temperature we can use a heat spot, but there are also all kinds of devices such as thermal plates, panels or ceramic lamps. You will find all this in specialized stores or on the net. Consult with the professional whenever it is possible to use the different tools since, for example, the heat spot can cause burns and must be isolated with the use of a mesh.
The humidity of the terrarium is a very important factor and should be around 50% and the 60%, however, in moulting times it will be necessary for the humidity to rise to 70% or 75%, as in the case of having a calf, then the level of humidity should be higher. The use of quality substrates will help us maintain the correct humidity.
Remember that it is very important that your snake is within these parameters. Improper temperatures can cause he alth problems such as regurgitation and even death.
Terrarium elements
Once the terrarium is acclimatized, we can add the different elements of the boa constrictor terrarium. We talk about the substrate, the hiding place and other accessories that will enrich your day to day.
We will start by looking for the substrate that will cover the base of the terrarium or fish tank. Although we can find various types on the market, the most recommended is hemp. Other options are coconut fiber, aspen, and even newsprint. We will never use cedar as it is very harmful.
Continuing with the care of the boa constrictor, it will be essential to make us a nest, shelter or hiding place so that it can take refuge during the day. It is always advisable to use two: one in the hot zone and one in the cold zone. We can use a thick branch that has a hole, an artificial cave and even a cardboard box. The adult boa can easily break some structures, so we must fix the shelter properly.
It will also be interesting to add high and thick branches so that the boa can climb and rest whenever it wants. As we have mentioned before, they are semi-arboreal snakes, so they are one of the elements that cannot be missing in their terrarium. Likewise, the installation of a small pool of water will be very beneficial for our snake, which will submerge regularly.
Cleaning
It is very important to follow a cleaning routine for the boa constrictor terrarium, especially when we offer live animals as food, otherwise the terrarium can begin to accumulate fungi and parasites.
Remove dirty areas every time the snake urinates or defecates and completely change the substrate once a month. Likewise, clean the terrarium completely and dry the area well. You can use chlorine diluted with water, following the proportion of 10% chlorine and 90% water. You can use an alcohol-based cleaner to clean the glass.
Boa constrictor feeding
Our snake must always have at its disposal fresh and abundant water Also, if it has a container large enough to bathe in, much better. Of course, use bottled water, since it will be free of limescale and bacteria.
The feeding of the boa constrictor in captivity is based on small rodents or lagomorphsWe can use mice, guinea pigs, rats or rabbits. One rodent a week is usually enough, but remember, look for the appropriate size of prey relative to the size of the snake. For example, a baby snake should receive newborn rodents, while an adult will receive adult specimens. The ideal time to offer it is at dusk.
It is important to note that we should not leave the prey with the snake unattended because if the snake was not hungry, it could probably be attacked by the rodent. If this option is not to your liking, you can always offer frozen and microwaved animals.
Initially the snake should not regurgitate the food, but if it does it may be because the prey was too big or because has been manipulated. Once it has eaten we should let it rest and not disturb it.
Tips
- If you see your boa constrictor sick, go to the vet as soon as possible.
- Be careful when handling it and always help yourself from another person.
- Do not leave the boa constrictor within the reach of small children or pets.
