Baby boa Question

[foggs5]

We recently purchased our 2nd hog island boa. She is 6 months old. We are really enjoying her! I've noticed that she is much more sensitive than our male who is 1.5 years old. She often has her head in an S shape, and watches movement all over the room, like if I turn my head, or a dog enters the room.. She is quicker moving too.. Is this because she is young and has not had as much handling or more of a personality difference?
Also I've noticed that she will tuck her head under her coils like she is hiding. Our male never does that. Is it just a baby thing? She is very healthy.
Thanks!


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[bcr229]

Sounds like a typical defensive baby.

[foggs5]

Sounds like a typical defensive baby.

Ok, thank you we are new to boas and I've never had a baby before


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[bcr229]

Yeah just keep handling sessions short and low-key. Just a few minutes each day, with days of for feeding days plus 2 afterward so she can digest in peace, and she'll figure out that the big Godzilla-monster (you) isn't a threat.

[patientz3ro]

Yeah just keep handling sessions short and low-key. Just a few minutes each day, with days of for feeding days plus 2 afterward so she can digest in peace, and she'll figure out that the big Godzilla-monster (you) isn't a threat.

This is one way, and an excellent one at that.

When I got Ajja, I did things a little differently. Not long after I got her, I started interacting with her every day. If she wasn't out and being handled, I had my hand in her tank for an hour or two. In a VERY short time, she became so accustomed to my scent that she appears to associate me with security and safety.

Full disclosure;

Ajja is a BP.

This was not a rigidly "scientific" experiment, so I can't PROVE my theory. I make no promises.

Even if I DO prove Mr acclamation theory, someone else may have a snake with a completely different personality. You could be that someone.

NEVER try this with a venomous animal.


Having said that, if you (or anyone else) tries this, I'd really like to know how it works out for you.

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[Evenstar]

Sounds like a typical defensive baby.

Yeah just keep handling sessions short and low-key. Just a few minutes each day, with days of for feeding days plus 2 afterward so she can digest in peace, and she'll figure out that the big Godzilla-monster (you) isn't a threat.

Best advice right here.

But also, you might want to make sure her enclosure is in a quiet place away from the dog/cat and away from lots of activity. Make sure she has security in her enclosure. Hides are good for baby boas.

[foggs5]

Thank you for your responses! I have 3 hides In her tank and it is very secluded and private she is very sweet, she hasn't struck or hissed, I just notice she notices every thing I have been holding her twice a day for about 20 minutes,but do leave her alone for a few days after feeding. Is that a lot?


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[Evenstar]

No, it's not a lot. Boas accept handling much better than BPs. If she's eating well, you're doing fine.