Keeping Boa Constrictors

If you quite fancy being a pet owner, then you may have given some consideration as to adopting a boa constrictor as a pet. However, it is imperative that you come to appreciate that caring for a boa takes commitment and they require a considerable amount of time and patience devoted to them in order to them keep happy and safe. In particular, a prospective boa pet owner should consider the following two factors:

Size: The most common variety of boa constrictor, the boa constrictor imperator can grow as long as eight feet in length and if that fails to impress, perhaps the fact that the red tailed boa constrictor can grow even larger than ten feet or more will make you realise just how large and powerful these animals are. A fully matured snake that has managed to achieve this size will require a considerable amount of space, not to mention a regular supply of large prey such as rats or even rabbits.

Lifespan: A boa constrictor can survive in captivity for twenty or more years and this can raise a number of considerable logistical difficulties for the pet owner, especially when their circumstances change for whatever reason. If you go on holiday, then you will need to ensure that you have someone to babysit your snake. However, finding someone to look after a large boa is often much harder than getting a friend to feed a cat!

Now that we have raised and considered two areas of potential concern, let us now consider whether or not they are actually worth such an investment of time and energy. First and foremost, boas require a certain amount of work to keep them happy and safe, and so this deters a great number of potential owners.

Snakes are classified as exotic pets and the amount of pleasure that they bring the lucky owners who are fortunate enough to own them is immeasurable. I speak from personal experience for I have owned and cared for a large number of different reptilian friends over the years, but it is the boas that really capture my heart. Some people take one look at them and feel fairly intimidated by them as they fear that they are dangerous or that the boa will strike at any moment. In reality, most captive boas are docile creatures indeed and to be perfectly blunt, they are probably much more frightened of you than you are of them. Just be gentle, patient and reassuring with them and give them the respect they deserve, since no matter how docile they seem they are still large and powerful animals.

Whilst there can be no denying that snakes require a very precise regime of temperature, humidity and diet, they are actually very low maintenance. Cats and dogs maybe the more popular forms of pets but if truth be told, the reality of the matter is that they can be a major burden on their owner. This is because the owner has to contend with their constant demands for exercise, food, attention and the cat/dog will not stop whining until they get what they want. The snake on the other hand, will require only a few minutes each day and otherwise can be left alone.

Boa constrictors are gorgeous, docile and simply awesome pets which can bring a considerable amount of happiness to the right kind of person. You may find it of some practical use if you were to speak with fellow boa constrictor owners and get their opinion on the matter. Whilst they maybe a little biased in favour of owning a boa as a pet, they will be able to tell you what problems you may encounter. Do your research, read up on the subject, speak with other reptile keepers and make your decision carefully, but if you do choose to keep snakes I’m sure you won’t regret the decision!

For more information on Boa Constrictors, try visiting Boa Care, a popular website that provides tips, advice and resources on caring for boas, or click for a guide to the Boa Imperator.