There is no doubting that the Brazilian Rainbow Boa, Epicrates Canchria, is a truly beautiful snake. The rainbow boas get their name from the iridescence in their skin, giving them a colorful rainbow shimmer in sunlight. This, coupled with their striking markings make them amongst the most attractive of all snakes. However, while they may look fantastic they also have a reputation for being short tempered, and difficult to handle. While there is some truth to this, and they are certainly not an ideal beginner species, they are in fact relatively easy to care for and many specimens can be free handled with care by experienced keepers.
Common Name: Brazilian Rainbow Boa
Scientific Name: Epicrates cenchria
Natural Location: South America
Size: Adults can exceed 7 feet in length, but 5 – 6 feet is more typical.
Life Span: These snakes will live upwards of 20 years if properly cared for.
Enclosure: The rainbow boas are semi-arboreal snakes, but as they are relatively small boas a modestly sized vivarium is required. 4X4x2 feet would be a minimum for a single adult. A sturdy climbing branch should be provided, along with hides and a large water bowl.
Temperature: A thermal gradient with a daytime high of around 90 degrees F, and falling but 10 – 15 degrees at night is ideal. While various types of heater may be used, a ceramic bulb, properly caged and controlled by thermostat is by far the best method.
Humidity: The Brazilian Rainbow Boa requires high humidity, and is prone to dehydration is the correct conditions are not provided. Daily misting of the vivarium should be carried out to keep an ambient humidity of around 75%. In addition to a large water bowl, these rainbow boas also require a damp hide which should be filled with sphagnum moss and kept moist at all times.
Feeding: Rainbow boas are generally good feeders and can be fed exclusively on defrosted rodents of a suitable size. Fuzzy mice every few days will be suitable for neonates, and as the snake grows the prey size should be increased accordingly. A large adult will take a rat every 12 – 14 days.
Lighting: Full spectrum UV lighting is not required and offers no benefit to these boas. These boas are nocturnal hunters and quite reclusive, so they will hide during the day. If any form of lighting is provided it should be carefully guarded to prevent burns, and thermostatically controlled.
Handling: The Brazilian Rainbow Boa does have a reputation for being somewhat unfriendly. Inexperienced keepers are well advised to take extreme care when handling new specimens. Having said that, many owners are able to free-handle their rainbow boas, but care and patience are required. Start slowly, getting the snake used to your presence a little at a time, and be prepared for the odd bite. While the bite is not venomous they are easily infected, so wash and disinfect any bite thoroughly. Don't let this put you off however, the Brazilian Rainbow Boa is a truly remarkable snake, and with care will make an excellent pet for a dedicated owner.
For more information about the
Brazilian Rainbow Boa, and care and husbandry advise for all boas visit http://www.boa-care.com
