Dumerils Boa
Description
Dumerils Boas are moderately sized snakes native to Madagascar. The average length is between 5-7 feet long, with females growing larger than males. Dumerils Boas typically have a docile temperament and make excellent pets. They have a beautiful creamy pastel colors with dark splotches. Dumerils exhibit iridescence similar to Rainbow Boas. This is caused by microscopic ridges on their scales that create a rainbow glow when reflecting light.
Feeding
Dumerils Boas in captivity primarily eat mice and rats that are about as thick as the widest part of their body. Babies are large enough to eat hopper mice and pinky rats. One appropriately sized prey item per week is ideal for babies. Once your snake approaches full size, you should reduce the feeding to once every two weeks to avoid obesity.
It is safest to feed your Dumerils Boa fresh killed or frozen/thawed food. Never leave a live rodent unattended with your snake. Dumerils Boas are most active at nighttime, and this is the ideal time to feed them. I usually wiggle the food with tongs to stimulate the snake to strike and eat it. If the snake is hesitant to strike, but interested in the food I gently press it against the boa’s mouth until it takes hold. If this fails, I’ll leave the food in the cage overnight. If your Dumerils Boa refuses to eat, the first thing you should check is the temperature and humidity in the cage. Always avoid handling your snake for 24-48 hours after feeding.
Housing
Dumerils Boas can be kept in anything ranging from simple plastic tubs to large elaborate terrariums. The key components are a secure enclosure with a large water bowl and a place to hide. Adult Dumerils Boas do best with at least 4-6 square feet of space. Babies can thrive in something as simple as a plastic shoe box/storage container. Dumerils Boas do best on Aspen wood chips or sani chips. Paper towels, craft paper, or newspaper can also be used. Avoid Pine and Cedar because they can irritate your snake. If you decide to use a glass cage or fish tank, you may want to cover the top to limit dissipation of humid air and loss of heat.