How to Breed Redtail Boas

The red-tail boa constrictor is native to South America. Sometimes the Boa Constrictor Constrictor-yes, there are two constrictors in the name-is referred to as a red-tailed boa based on the coloration of its tail, but this is incorrect. The Boa Constrictor Imperator is actually the true red-tailed boa. In the pet trade, these snakes are commonly referred to as BCCs and BCIs. BCCs grow a bit larger than common boa constrictors and are a bit more expensive, but relatively easy to breed.

Things You'll Need

  • One male red-tail boa constrictor
  • One female red-tail boa constrictor
  • Thermostat
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Instructions

    • 1

      In early fall, begin feeding the female boa more frequently. Instead of one meal per week, one meal every five days should be sufficient. Over the next few months, the boa should put on a bit of weight in order to compensate for not eating while she is gravid. While some snakes may eat while gravid, others will not show interest in food while their bodies are busy housing their developing young.

    • 2

      Many breeders begin adjusting their snakes' temperatures to encourage optimal breeding conditions. Some breeders will "cool" their snakes by lowering temperatures and lighting cycles to mimic the climates of their natural environment, letting them know instinctively that breeding season is coming up. This is achieved by providing the snakes with winter-like conditions (shorter light periods, less food and cooler temperatures) and summer-like conditions (longer light periods, warmer temperatures and more food) during different parts of the year. Winter conditions (cooling) can be introduced to both males and females during December and January, with the snakes being "warmed" at the end of February through to the end of March. In April, they are introduced for breeding.

    • 3

      Other breeders choose to simply put their snakes together, wait to observe copulation and separate them if nothing happens. Later in the year, they try again. It is up to the breeder to decide which method they'd like to follow, as some believe that if the parents are captive bred they won't need their natural climatic conditions to stimulate breeding since they've never experienced them before.

    • 4

      If breeding was successful, the female may refuse food until she gives birth. The gestation can take anywhere from 4 to 8 months and the female's midsection will grow noticeably larger during this time period.

    • 5

      Once the baby boas are born, remove them from the cage. They do not need their mother to survive and she may indeed harm them by accident.