|
RE: BOA
|
Reply
|
|
by ghostdragon65 on June 19, 2008
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
|
The thing about it is that I'm not wanting to take care of a Black Mamba. They're just my favorite type of snake besides a cobra. i'm just wanting a boa constrictor for a pet snake
|
| |
|
RE: BOA
|
Reply
|
|
by yoyoing on June 19, 2008
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
|
And YES Karl, I wish everybody could get this through their thick heads, find a MENTOR for venomous snakes. This does not apply to the boa question.
|
| |
|
RE: BOA
|
Reply
|
|
by tigers9 on June 19, 2008
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
In my life I never compromise, if I want something I get just that and make sure I get educated what I am getting into, but substitutes just do not work for me, because I would just end up with a regret not getting the thing I really wanted in the first place.
Don’t settle, work hard for what you really want.
Get educated and get a small boa or Ball python.
If I want a tiger, bobcat will just not do;-)
Z
|
| |
|
RE: BOA
|
Reply
|
|
by JoeCrotalid on June 20, 2008
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
I have to agree with a corn as a starter, maybe even stretch it to a Ball Python or a king snake. These are pretty docile species in most instances and faily easy to care for. Living in Florida-having a large Boa or Python is a major issue with the new Regs regarding large snakes. The other concern is what happens when the snake gets too large for him to manage or he gets tired of it (hopefully that's not the case) but what then is he responsible and gives the snake to someone that can handle it or worse yet-another large snake released into the wild.
A native corn or native king holds far less ramification if released into the wild.
As stated a corn or King is going to be easier to handle and bites are really no big deal. Start with a small easy to handle species and as you gain comfort and experience then start to progress to other species. Also check your local laws regarding what you can own and what they require, ie. microchips, etc. As stated research before getting your snake so you have an understanding of what its needs are.
That's how I got started and now have over 17 species of non-hots that are all thriving although I stay away from the larger species to avoid the headaches and the fact I don't have the space. I am currently looking to move back into the hot arena, but per FL regs-have to complete my 1000 hours again with letters supporting my ability. But start small, enjoy it, and gradually move into the bigger arena's when you are experienced and ready. And for God's sake make sure you the passion for the hobby for the snakes sake before you risk its life. Herpetology can be an exciting field and in some cases lead to a career path.
|
| |
|
RE: BOA
|
Reply
|
|
by cressm3 on June 20, 2008
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
There many species of smaller boas that are really quite neat--rosy boa seldom exceeds 3 - 4 ft, rainbow boas seldom see 3 ft neither are inclined to bite sand boas also a nice change of pace, understand there is no doubt that if provoked ANY snake will defend itself, if handled improperly they will bite out of fear or pain. and contrary to popular belief NO snake like the Human touch juct look at the reaction of the snake see how they try to pull their skin away from the hand, is not a matter of " Like, or Love " is a matter of tolerating the touch, recognizing that the hand probably won't hurt them today. With that said smaller species of boa are perfectly suitable for novices-suggest you thourghly research your intended purchase totally understand it's requirements, and start from there.
Barry
|
| |
|
RE: BOA
|
Reply
|
|
by cressm3 on June 20, 2008
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
I have kept venomous snakes for MANY years, had ONE MONSTEROUS mistake, with C. Atrox, a snakes that is short on forgiviing errors in his presence --that was about 25 years ago and never again. The major difference between owning ANY species of Boa and any species of venomous snake is if your bitten by any boa your left with a hand that looks like a pin cushion, and blood dripping all over the place, something alittle iodine and gauze takes care of, if a venomous snake bites you- plan on a extended stay in the hospital, and major expenses related to same to the tune of $10,000 - $25,000 more if your exposed to the truly nasty ones ( your beloved Black Mamba and some species of cobra specifically the African species are particularly nasty ) takes special frame of mind to deal with hots, some have it some think they have it and risk much for very little gain. learn how to handle mistake free a Banded Water snake with out being bitten( no easy task ). just food for thought and I hope your not a troll.
Barry
|
| |
|
RE: BOA
|
Reply
|
|
by Buzztail1 on June 20, 2008
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
Before things get too far out of hand...
The original question was - "What kind of boa is good for a first pet snake?"
The OP did NOT ask about moving on to any venomous species.
Actually, Rainbow Boas average between 4 and 6 feet with some reaching a monstrous (for Rainbow Boas) 7 feet long. They are also smaller boas which make a wonderful first boa. The Brazilian Rainbow Boa is the most colorful subspecies but I personally believe that the Colombian Rainbow Boa is hardier and easier to care for. My Colombian Rainbow Boa is about 4.5 feet long and is 28 years old this year.
Jeff Clark is an excellent breeder of Rainbow Boas who will be happy to answer any questions you might have through his website:
http://www.corallus.com/cenchria/
Hope this information is helpful.
R/
Karl
|
| |
|
RE: BOA
|
Reply
|
|
by soberwolf on June 20, 2008
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
|
I have to agree with Karl. Rosy Boas are pretty easy snakes to care for , small in size. And there are many publications on keeping them.................Shelby
|
| |
|
Email Subscription
You are not subscribed to this topic.
Subscribe!
My Subscriptions
Subscriptions Help
Check our help page for help using
, or send questions, comments, or suggestions to the
Manager.
|
