Boa Viper Health Information

The Viper Boa is relatively easy to care for in captivity. The main problem with this snake stems from wild caught species, which tend to carry disease. Once they have been treated for any parasites or infections they are usually quite easy to maintain. Many wild caught individuals are reported to be problem feeders, and this often stems from sickness.

This species loves to bathe, and it should be given a water bowl that is ample size for soaking. It is not uncommon to find them soaking for days at a time. This species will even breed in water.

Viper Boas should be fed rodents, and it is reported that they prefer fuzzy rats to adult mice. Though fuzzy rats are not the preferred died, since adult mice have more calcium than fuzzy rats, and therefore provide a more balanced diet. Most Viper Boas only need to be fed every 3 to 4 weeks, which is significantly less often than some other boids. The best rule of thumb, however, is to feed when they are hungry.

Enclosures should be kept between 80 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit year round. Since this is a tropical species, humidity levels should be kept high, between 50 and 80 percent. The Viper Boa needs a thick layer of substrate in which to bury itself. This species likes to hide, and should be provided plenty of hiding places.

Breeding
The Viper Boa is a livebearer. The presence of multiple males is usually required to help induce the female into breeding. Though there are exceptions. Additionally it is important to provide a winter cool down period of 6 to 8 weeks prior to breeding. Daytime temperatures should be approximately 80 degrees Fahrenheit while nigh time temperatures should be lowered between 60 and 65 degrees. After breeding and incubation the Viper Boa will usually give birth to 5 to 20 babies.

Babies and juvenile Viper Boas should be fed more often than adults. They usually require feeding every 10 to 14 days.