Boa constrictors as pets
PetsOne of the most popular exotic pets on the market over the years has been the boa constrictor. Some individuals are not fond of reptiles, but those that are enjoy boas constrictors for their grace, beauty, and strength. Snakes are relatively easy to care for, but special handling and maintenance is necessary for your safety and theirs.
Boa constrictor is a general term for several species of reptilian snakes, some of which are endangered and protected. The two most common subspecies that you will find readily available at the pet store are the red-tailed boa and the common boa constrictor. The lifespan of the average boa is twenty-five to thirty years, so if the animal is considered as a pet it is necessary to remember that it is a very long commitment. The average size of an adult red-tailed boa constrictor is two to ten feet long with a weight of up to twenty-five pounds. Although they are generally docile in temperament, you must respect their strength at all times.
When selecting these pets, you should generally go for a captive-bred animal. The snake reproduces quite easily in captivity and these animals are usually healthier and more docile than wild animals. All constrictors are in the category of threatened or endangered in the wild, which gives more reason to buy a farm animal. When selecting a snake, look for these signs of a generally healthy animal.
* alert
* strong body
* no loose skin
* tongue movement
* clear skin
* no external parasites
* healthy scales
* no injuries
* reaction to handling by winding up and then relaxing after a bit
To house one, glass aquariums with a lock screen on top will suffice for small to medium sized animals. Once the snake is larger, a secure cage with a minimum space of ten square feet will be required. Cover the bottom of the cage with paper towels or a durable indoor / outdoor rug. Reptile bark can also be used, but this is a more expensive way to do it. Whichever method you use, keep the bottom clean to maintain the snake’s overall health.
The cage temperature provided to the boa constrictor is critical, so use very accurate thermometers to keep them within the ranges of eighty-two to ninety degrees during the day and seventy-eight degrees to eighty-five degrees at night. A slightly warmer “sunbathing spot” of ninety to ninety-five degrees should also be available for the snake. Never allow the snake to be directly exposed to any heating elements, including thermal rocks, constrictors are very susceptible to burns from such sources.
To power one, provide a separate enclosure other than the regular housing for this purpose. This creates an association with feeding in a location other than the usual cage, reducing the possibility of an accidental bite when the animal is frequently handled. The smaller the snake, the more often it needs to be fed. Typically every five to seven days for young snakes, ten to fourteen days for slightly older snakes, and adults that need to feed every three to four weeks. Generally, mice, rats, and rabbits are the best food and you need to make sure that the food is no larger than the widest part of the snake. After feeding has occurred, do not handle the snake for twenty-four hours to ensure proper digestion.
A sturdy water dish is also required inside the cage, as the boa will tend to bathe during molting to help with skin removal. This will also add extra moisture to the air in the cage for the conditions that snakes prefer. Another essential accessory is a hiding place, as well as a sturdy branch for crawling. These are two things that the animal needs to feel more comfortable and at home in its enclosure.