red tail boa care - Noah's Ark Pets
Common Name: Red Tail Boa
Scientific Name: Boa constrictor imperator
Adult Size: 5' to 9'
Distribution: Central America and Columbia
Temperament: Usually easy to tame.
Captive Environment:
An adult Red Tail boa will require at least an 80-gallon long aquarium. Suitable substrates for you snake's home include reptile carpet or reptile bark. Provide branches for climbing and basking, also provide dark places for hiding.
Temperature:
Red Tail boas are indigenous to tropical rainforest areas of South America; therefore, it's crucial that they be provided a temperature range of 78-85°F with a basking area of 90°F during the day, and in the low to high 70's°F at night. This is necessary for the Red Tail boa's metabolism and immune system to function properly. There are several methods for establishing the proper temperature range for your reptile. Using spotlights of variable wattage incandescent bulbs on the outside of the enclosure, under tank heaters or any combination of these. When using spotlights for 24 hour heat use red, night bulbs or a ceramic heating element to maintain day / night light cycle. Never place lights inside the enclosure where the reptile could come in contact with them and get burned. Use a thermometer to ensure proper temperature range is maintained.
Lighting:
UVB emitting full spectrum lighting is optional for snakes. However it may prove to be beneficial to the long term care of your pet reptile. The light should be positioned less than 18" from your pet for maximum effect. Glass blocks ultraviolet light, and air circulation, therefore it should never be used as a top for the enclosure. A 12- hour day/ night lighting cycle is a good start for your pet reptile. Using a timer is the best way to ensure that the proper amount of light is received.
Food:
Red Tail boas are carnivores. Feed only rodents of appropriate sizes, such as mice, and rats. Never leave uneaten rodents in the cage; they can cause serious injury and even death to the snake.
Water:
Red Tail boas enjoy periodic soaks, so provide a large deep container for soaking and drinking. This species requires moderate to high levels of humidity.
NOTE: This care sheet is a general guide, to learn more about your pet consult a book about it.
