Mojo, Risin
The species, Boa Constrictor Constrictor is one of the more commonly kept of the larger snakes, these are sometimes sold as "Red Tailed Boas" and come in a large number of regional variations as well as a number of distinct subspecies B.C. Imperator (Mexican Boa) B.C. Occidentalis (Argentine Boa). There are other, distinct subspecies, but by and large, their care is similar to the basic B.C.C.
Red-Tailed Boas are found in tropical rainforests in Colombia. As well as other parts of central and south america.
Temperature
Daytime temperatures should be maintained at 85° to 90° F with a basking temperature of 90° to 93° F. Nighttime temperatures should be maintained at 75° to 80° F. Daily misting should be used to maintain humidity between 75-90 %. Snakes shed in one complete piece, if yours is shedding in pieces the humidity is too low. Another option to increase humidity is to provide a box with a small entrance, for the snake to enter, filled with damp potting soil and moss.
Housing
A general guideline is that the enclosure be at least 3/4 as long as the animal's body and width at least a third of the animal's length. If you are only interested in the aquarium type glass enclosures, then you will probably need at least the 100 Gallon size with a latching top. These guys are escape artists, and adults are extremely strong, so ensure that you use the proper style top. Custom built caging, such as plastic cages or melamine caging, offers the best solution for keeping adult boas. They are generally large enough, strong enough, and have built in doors for escape protection. 4' X 24" X 24" is probably the minimum size requirement, with a 6' X 24" X 24"perfect size for the entire boas lifetime.
Bedding
Indoor/outdoor carpeting such as Astroturf™ can often provide an excellent substrate that is easy to clean and disinfect. Linoleum is also another excellent alternative. Other substrates such as newspaper, and aspen can also be used. Cedar is not to be used, as it is toxic. If the Burmese python is kept on wood shavings it is recommended to not feed it on that substrate as accidental ingestion of shavings can lead to intestinal blockages.
Food
While I believe the ULTIMATE food source for boa constrictors is RATS, the following have been listed as food sources for boa constrictors: Mice, rats, hamsters, gerbils, guinea pigs and rabbits. The best feeding rule I can offer is to feed smaller items early. As a guideline, the size of the prey item should not be greater that the girth of the boa at mid body. Don't push the limits on your boa. Newborns should be fed "fuzzy" or just weaned mice or "pinkie" rats. And then graduate with the growth of the snake. If you feed prey items that are too large, you are asking for the boa to regurgitate! This can lead to many health problems, and even regurgitation syndrome.
Larger boas may be better suited if fed rabbits. Some boas would take several large or jumbo rats in order to get enough. In that case one large rabbit would be better. Rabbits can also be order frozen, then thawed the same as rodents.
Cleaning and Handling
The enclosure should be spot cleaned daily. If using indoor/outdoor carpeting it is recommended that you have at least a second piece available to swap with the soiled for ease of cleaning. A 5% bleach solution can be used to disinfect the enclosure as needed. Be sure to rinse and dry everything thoroughly before using. Water should be changed daily. It is recommended to wash your hands thoroughly after handling your animal or cleaning the cage or cage accessories.
