How to Calm a Temperamental Red Tail Boa

Red tail boas are a large snake species native to Central America and South America. The boa constrictor can grow up to 13 feet in length in extreme cases, with females larger than males. They are commonly kept as pets and are known for their distinct banding markings and reddish tail. Boa constrictors constrict their food, slowly strangling it to death.

Things You'll Need

  • Snake hook
  • Rubbing alcohol
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a captive bred, young boa constrictor as a pet when possible. Many boa constrictors are imported to North America every year straight from the wild, and wild boa constrictors may be more aggressive than those born into captivity. Also, wild boa constrictors are more likely to have parasites and other illnesses that might make them more nervous and less docile. The younger a boa constrictor is, the less time it has had to develop wild or aggressive behaviors.

    • 2

      Open the red tail boa's enclosure and allow the snake to see and smell you. Ensure the snake is awake and alert, flicking its tongue and moving its eyes. If the snake strikes immediately, close the enclosure and try again the next day. Snakes can be unusually testy if they are hungry, ill or going into moult, or shedding. By allowing the red tail boa ample time to see and smell you, you will not surprise it when you go to handle it.

    • 3

      Slide the snake hook under the head of the snake and bring it to rest under the snake's belly, about one-third down the length of the snake's body. Snake hooks are long, dull hooks on a stick that are used in handling snakes. By using the snake hook, you reduce the risk of getting bitten by a temperamental red tail boa when initially picking it up, which is when you are most likely to be bitten.

    • 4

      Lift the snake out of the enclosure, keeping its head facing away from you. Bring one of your hands under the snake to support its weight and allow the snake to wrap around your hands and slither onto you. Always move calmly and slowly when handling a temperamental red tail boa constrictor.

    • 5

      Handle the snake for about half an hour to an hour each day, except on days after the snake eats or is in moult. This gets the snake used to being handled and eventually results in a calm and docile snake.