RAINBOW BOA  

  • Typically have a red to maroon background color with black-bordered "crescents" which are often a bright orange.
  • Rainbow boas get their common name as a result of the spectacular iridescence they display when viewed in good light.
  • Average adult size is between 5 and 6 feet in length, some may reach only 4 feet while others can near 7 feet.
  • Under ideal conditions these boas can be expected to live in excess of 25 years.

Diet

Baby boas will eat one to two pinky mice once a week and will gradually accept larger prey items as they grow. If the meal does not produce a slightly noticeable lump in your snakes belly then it’s time to upgrade to a larger prey item. Boas should be fed appropriately sized prey once every other week to once a month throughout its lifetime.

A dish of fresh water should be available at all times.

Housing  

Small boas may be housed in a standard 10 to 20 gallon tank, however as they grow they will of course require a larger enclosure. A single adult will do well in a 75 gallon tank while pairs or exceptionally large specimens should be given more space. Boas are mostly terrestrial but will occasionally climb on branches and logs in captivity if given the opportunity. A large hiding cave and fake plants as decorations will provide enough cover for the boa to hide.

The enclosure should be kept between 85 and 90 degrees during the day and 75 and 80 degrees at night. A heating pad should be used when possible as it eliminates the drying effects of a heat bulb. However, if a heating pad is not enough, heat lamps with a basking or infrared light or a ceramic heat emitter can be used to supplement.

Rainbow boas will dehydrate quickly if not provided with ample water and humidity. Humidity levels of 70% or more seem to be best for rainbow boas in captivity. Larger animals seem more tolerant of dryer conditions than their smaller counterparts. In addition to a large water bowl, daily or twice daily misting of the enclosure and all of its contents will be required.

Handling & Care

Baby boas and those not used to handling can be nervous and nippy. This behavior usually disappears with time and patience. For all of their natural beauty, rainbow boas are most commonly kept as display animals, being enjoyed from a distance. As with any animal, excessive handling can be stressful and lead to other issues down the line. If you must handle these snakes do so confidently and with slow, steady movements. Spot cleaning by removing feces once a week will ensure a healthy, clean environment but bedding should be thrown away and the entire cage and decorations wiped clean once every month to two months. Wash your hands with anti-bacterial soap after handling any animal.

Health

Mouth rot (infectious stomatitis) can occur if a snake's teeth are broken, the mouth lining is injured, or if a struggling rodent being constricted bites the snake.

Respiratory distress can occur if the cage temperature changes radically or if humidity is low and the cage is damp.