Choosing the Right Boa Constrictor

Choosing the Right Boa Constrictor: A Snakesy Beginner’s Guide

Boa constrictors are incredible pets, but choosing the right one is essential for a positive experience. With different subspecies, morphs, and temperaments, not all boas are equally suited for beginners. In this guide, we’ll break down the best boas for new owners, how to select the right morph, and what to expect from their temperament.

🔹 Understanding Boa Constrictor Subspecies

Not all boa constrictors are the same! The term boa constrictor actually refers to multiple subspecies, and each has unique characteristics that impact their size, care requirements, and overall temperament.

✅ The Two Most Common Boa Subspecies in the Pet Trade

1️⃣ Boa imperator (Common Boa, often mislabeled as a Red Tail Boa)

✅ Best for Beginners

  • Typically grows 6–8 feet (manageable size)
  • More forgiving humidity and temperature requirements
  • Often has a gentler temperament
  • Includes popular morphs like Motley, Sunglow, and Anery

2️⃣ Boa constrictor constrictor (True Red Tail Boa)

⚠️ Best for More Experienced Keepers

  • Larger—8–10+ feet when fully grown
  • Requires precise humidity control
  • Can be more expensive due to slower growth and rarity
  • Well-known for their stunning deep red tails

💡 Best Choice for Beginners?

Boa imperator! 🏆
It’s smaller, easier to care for, and more widely available in the pet trade. If you’re new to boas, this is your best starting point.

🔹 Best Boa Morphs for Beginners

Boas come in a wide variety of morphs, or color and pattern variations, which can affect their price, appearance, and sometimes their care needs. For beginners, it’s best to stick with hardy, easy-to-care-for morphs that don’t require any extra special husbandry.

✅ Beginner-Friendly Boa Morphs:

🐍 Hypo Boa – Lighter coloration, generally docile temperament
🐍 Motley Boa – Unique pattern variation, strong genetics
🐍 Anery Boa – Stunning black and silver tones, simple care needs
🐍 Normal Boa – Classic boa pattern, most affordable option

⚠️ Morphs to Be Cautious About:

Some morphs, while beautiful, may require specialized care:
🔴 Albino / Sunglow Boas – More sensitive to bright light, may need additional shaded hiding spots
🔴 IMG (Increased Melanin Gene) Boas – Stunning black coloration but tend to be more expensive
🔴 Leopard Boas – More uncommon, sometimes harder to find care advice for

📌 Pro Tip: If you’re just starting out, a Normal Boa or Hypo Boa is often the most affordable and easy-to-care-for option.

🔹 Friendliest Boa Constrictors: Which Boas Have the Best Temperament?

While boas are known for being docile, some subspecies and individual snakes are naturally more relaxed than others. However, handling also plays a big role in their behavior.

✅ Boas with the Best Temperaments for Beginners:

🟢 Colombian Boas (Boa imperator) – One of the calmest and most widely recommended boas for first-time owners
🟡 Central American Boas – Smaller in size, but can be a bit feistier as hatchlings
🔴 True Red Tail Boas (Boa constrictor constrictor) – Can be more defensive as juveniles and take longer to settle down

🐍 Handling Tips for a Friendly Boa

  • Start with short, gentle handling sessions. A few minutes at a time helps your boa get used to you.
  • Be consistent. Frequent, positive handling reduces defensive behavior over time.
  • Avoid handling when shedding or digesting. Boas can be more irritable during these times.
  • Stay calm and confident. Nervous movements can make a snake feel uneasy.

📌 Pro Tip: Regular handling = a calmer, more social boa. With patience and care, even more defensive boas can grow into relaxed, easy-to-handle pets.

🐍 Final Thoughts: Which Boa is Right for You?

If you’re a beginner looking for a manageable, friendly, and easy-to-care-for boa, a Boa imperator (Colombian Boa) is your best choice. Pair that with a hardy morph like a Normal, Hypo, or Anery Boa, and you’ll have a beautiful, rewarding pet that’s great for first-time boa owners.

🚀 Ready to find your perfect boa constrictor? Browse available boas today on Snakesy.com and connect with trusted breeders!

Or,

Return to the main Boa Constrictor Buyer's Guide.

Move on to Enclosure and Habitat Setup.