First boa?

[Arcapello]

I'm thinking about getting a boa eventually- I still have a lot of research to do, and I'm not in a hurry.

*What would you suggest as a first boa? One that stays a size that one person could safely handle.
*What size terrarium would it need as an adult?

I'm mostly starting this thread out of curiousity, but any and all information is appreciated.

[mainbutter]

I'm comfortable handling all but the largest boa constrictor constrictors (BCCs) alone.

What "kind" of boa are you attracted to more, stuff like boa constrictors that are heavy bodied? Lighter built rainbow boas? Tree boas?

Enclosure sizes vary with species and size. Big snakes need big cages.

[Kaorte]

Amazon Tree Boa. Would probably need a 2x2x2 for an Adult.

[Trackstrong83]

My first boa is a Dumeril's boa. She's awesome, looks great, and has the best temper. Males get around 5' and females around 7'. Big and strong, but completely manageable

[Daybreaker]

Can't go wrong with a good ol' Colombian IMO. Lots of morphs and still get to a good size without being unmanageable. If size is a worry I recommend a male. At least a 4' cage for an average sized male or 6' for large males and females.

[Bill T]

I had a columbian rainbow boa for awhile. i didnt have it to full maturity tho. i got it as a baby and as soon as we started handling it it clamed right down and became as ausome to handle as my calmest bp's.

[Arcapello]

I'm open to any suggestions for boas. I do really like Brazilian Rainbow Boas, but I've heard that they're a bit harder to take care of and can be snappy. Is this true?
I also like boa constrictors (I think they're the common ones? -- Don't know much about boas!)
For now I'm just browsing around for information. It will probably be awhile before I get one, but it's nice to hear all of the info
I'd like one that I could handle as a "pet" not a display snake. Forgot to specify.
Also, how much do most boas cost? (like, under $100, in the hundreds, in the thousands- doesn't have to be specific at all)

[Rage Beard Reptiles]

You can get a good looking BCI for under $200. My T+ Albino central american was about $160 I think, can't remember exactly.

[Evenstar]

You can find a normal BCI with no special genetics on kingsnake or fauna for only $30-40. Dumerils are going to run you about $120 or so. A BCI morph will totally depend on the morph (and the breeder) - hypos and anerys will go for about $160 or so, albinos around $250+, ghosts are about $300, sunglows run around $400+, and on up from there. Note: these are estimated prices for babies.

Dumerils are great first boas. Male BCIs are also pretty terrific. There's really nothing wrong with Rainbow boas either - they do require a bit higher humidy and babies can be somewhat snappish, but the adults usually settle down quite well.

My first boa was a baby female BCI. Best choice I ever made! I do recommend a baby - it's very nice (and satisfying) to raise a baby to adulthood. And you get used to handling it too and you and the snake get to know each other as it grows.

[Skiploder]

There are several locality BCIs available for reasonable prices - Tarahumaras and the island boas for example - that stay reasonably small. Gus Rentfro at Rio Bravo is the guy to contact for more info.