Rosy Boas make excellent pets, but the right husbandry is key. Since these snakes originate in Mexico and Baja California, their ideal habitat replicates this hot, humid climate where they in.
Consider the following questions when configuring the ideal habitat for a rosy boa:
How Often do Rosy Boas Eat?
While Rosy boas have a healthy appetite, there are some tricks that encourage them to eat. It is recommended that owners do not handle their snakes for a couple hours prior to feeding time. Snakes should be fed inside their own enclosure ideally.
Rosy boas are mellow, but it is suggested that a snake hook can help with handling a new pet at feeding time. Baby snakes, up to two years old, should be fed a single rodent once weekly. Let them digest their food and do not handle for at least an hour after feeding.
As for adult snakes, they eat a bit less than younger hatchlings. They should also be fed a rodent once a week, but it may be stretched out by a couple more days. Snakes tend to lose their appetites when they shed. Continue to offer food and be patient.
How Big do Rosy Boa Snakes Get?
Generally, a rosy boa can grow up to two to three feet in length. These snakes can also live upwards of 25 years, which makes adopting one a serious lifelong commitment for owners.
What Size of Tank/Enclosure Does a Rosy Boa Need?
Rosy boa hatchlings do best in a ten-gallon aquarium. When the snake is one years old, increase the size of its enclosure and add more features to the habitat. Plastic or glass reptile enclosures work well for rosy boas.
Most adult snakes need a tank that is at least three feet wide by 18 inches high or 30 gallons in size. Make sure to provide bedding for the snake, which should be thoroughly cleaned once a month.
Do Rosy Boas Need Humidity?
Rosy boas like a little extra humidity. Make sure that they always have access to a non-porous water bowl in their habitat. A ceramic ramekin will work fine. Provide a humid hide for the snake, which is essentially a piece of sphagnum moss that holds moisture and provides extra humidity to the snake’s environment. Snakes also need moisture when shedding their skins.
Do Rosy Boas Need Heat Lamps?
Rosy boas originate from a warm climate, so they like a warm habitat with a way of cooling down, as needed. Provide both hot—around 90 degrees F and cold—around 70 degrees F elements in their enclosure so the snake is able to self-regulate its own body temperature. The snake will move about its habitat from the cool to the warm areas, as needed.
Thinking about a pet snake? As long as the focus is on the habitat and husbandry, a rosy boa is an excellent choice. Consider these tips and tricks when settling your snake in to its new home.
