Characteristics - This snake is one of the most frequently
kept constrictors . They are generally docile, even tempered and
usually slow moving and tolerant of frequent handling. The female of
the species typically grows significantly larger than males.
Requirements - Tropical temperatures of 80 to 92
degrees and not to drop below 75 degrees (use a thermometer). The
enclosure should allow the snake to stretch out half of its body
length and a width around a third of the animals length. Enclosure
should be free of sharp edges and easy to clean. You should provide
a water bowl (big enough for the snake to fully submerge itself), a
hide box or shelter for the snake to hide under (in the heated side
of the enclosure), a climbing limb that has been treated, a suitable
substrate ( newspaper, reptile carpeting, paper towels or paper
bags) as the snake may swallow their substrate, use caution when
deciding what to put in their cage. You want to have only one end of
the enclosure heated, so the snake can escape the heat to thermo
regulate itself (or cool itself off ). Overhead heat lamps are best,
you should not ever use a heat rock, the snake will burn itself on
it ! Heat the enclosure for 12 hours then turn of the heat source
for 12 hours. Continuous light and heat will cause stress on the
snake. Be sure the enclosure is escape proof, if there is a way out
the snake will find it !
Diet - Mice, rats, guinea pigs, rabbits, and
chickens. Increase the snakes food size as it gets bigger. Should be
fed at least once every 10 to 15 days. .
Size and Life Span - Lengths of 8 feet and over are
common, a 12 foot animal is considered a large one. They have been
known to live 25 years or more in captivity, if properly cared
for.
Difficulty Level - Easy , but the keeper must have
a general knowledge of snakes.
Handling - You should always support the snakes
body and avoid any fast movements. Try to avoid restraining the
snake . Avoid public situations which may be stressful on the snake.
A nervous snake may occasionally bite, a snake bites for two reasons
: 1-they mistake you for a food source or 2- they are in fear for
their safety. Never handle a snake over 10' alone
!
