Information on Boa Snakes

Physical Characteristics

• Boas are large snakes, with the common boa constrictor capable of reaching 13 feet in length as an adult. The anaconda, however, has been known to grow up to 30 feet and weigh as much as 550 lbs. Most boas have colorful, intricate markings that vary slightly, depending on their country of origin. One of the most common boas, the boa constrictor, has a cream-colored base with dark brown diamondlike patterns along its back. Toward the tail, the patterns become more closely spaced and take on a reddish appearance. All boas are primitive snakes, and even retain vestigial hind limbs that can be felt near the tail of the snake as small spurs beneath the skin.

Diet

• All boas kill their prey by suffocating them to death. The snake strikes, grabbing and holding the animal with its sharp, curved teeth, and then wraps its coils around the prey. With every breath the animal exhales, the boa squeezes tighter, until eventually it asphyxiates. After it has died, the boa will then swallow the animal whole. Boas mostly subsist on small mammals in the wild, such as rats and mice. Larger specimens, though, will take on larger animals. In fact, anacondas have been known to eat small pigs and tapirs.

Distribution and Habitat

• The 43 species of the Boidae are spread throughout the world. Boas have been found in parts of Asia, including India; Africa; North, Central and South America, the Caribbean and even a part of southeastern Europe. Actual habitat will vary, depending on the exact species of boa. Generally, they prefer tropical forests due to the thick cover and abundant source of food and water. However, boas can be found in open fields and even deserts.

Reproduction

• Boas breed on a seasonal basis, with the female creating a scent which attracts any males in the area. Unlike pythons, which give birth to eggs, all boids give birth to live young. As soon as the young boas are born, they must immediately take care of themselves. The number of snakes born per litter will vary greatly, though it will often vary between 10 and 65 snakes, though some of these may be stillborn. When the young boas reach approximately 4 years of age, they will reach sexual maturity and begin mating.

Boas as Pets

• Boas, especially boa constrictors, are often kept as pets. Before you decide to keep a boa as a pet, however, you must make sure you're in for the long haul. Boas can live beyond 20 years in captivity. While a small heated aquarium will suffice for a small, young boa, you'll need to invest in a larger enclosure for an adult snake. A cage that is approximately 6 feet long by 3 feet wide will work best. The cage will also need to be heated with a heating mat and have a large water dish that's big enough for the snake to fully immerse itself. A large rock and forked branch should also be provided for the boa, as these can be used to help with the shedding process and for climbing. Young boas will need to be fed a mouse once a week, while an adult can handle a few rats every 2 weeks. Of course, if you have any small pets in the house, you need to make sure they are kept a safe distance from the boa and that your snake's enclosure is properly secured.