New arrivals :)

Just picked up a new anery female BCI and a hypo male BCI.

Female is about 6' and 3 years old and male is about 3.5' and 2 years old.

Breeder had her paired with 3 male albino BCI's and said she might be preggers.

Pretty excited.

I will get pictures and hard numbers as soon as I get home and them settled in.


0.1.0 Normal Ball Python
0.1.0 Columbian B.C.I. 2013
1.0.0 EBV Red Group Pastel Hypo Jungle B.C.I. 2013

PICTURES!!!!!!!!!!!

Congrats on your pickups - sounds really exciting! :D:D:D

Sorry still setting up their enclosure...

I will get pics ASAP!


0.1.0 Normal Ball Python
0.1.0 Columbian B.C.I. 2013
1.0.0 EBV Red Group Pastel Hypo Jungle B.C.I. 2013

Pictures! :) Congrats on the pick-ups; I'll hopefully have my first red tail in the next two months; SUPER excited!

Also, I meant to tell you before: I absolutely love your username, so true, LOL.

Ok here's a teaser:

Photo shoot tomorrow outside ;)

http://i1242.photobucket.com/albums/...2/null-194.jpg

http://i1242.photobucket.com/albums/...2/null-193.jpg

http://i1242.photobucket.com/albums/...2/null-195.jpg

Female is 10.875lbs
Male is 3.5lbs

Length still not established but female appears to be 6ft+ and male 4ft+

0.1.0 Normal Ball Python
0.1.0 Columbian B.C.I. 2013
1.0.0 EBV Red Group Pastel Hypo Jungle B.C.I. 2013

Nice! That is exciting. Its going to be fun just watching them now. Enjoy.

They look great!

Are you going to continue to house them together? Or is this just temporary?


They are very nice! :gj:

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Evenstar

Are you going to continue to house them together? Or is this just temporary?


They are very nice! :gj:

---

I've been told by many many breeders around here(trust me I have had my concerns with cohabitation) and the answer every time has been "absolutely no issue as long as you aren't feeding them together."

So I might house them together, and maybe not... They seem to house well together, they ball up in the same hide, and don't even seem curious of each other.

Anyhow here is a picture or two of my female:

http://i1242.photobucket.com/albums/...2/null-196.jpg

http://i1242.photobucket.com/albums/...2/null-197.jpg

http://i1242.photobucket.com/albums/...2/null-198.jpg

http://i1242.photobucket.com/albums/...2/null-199.jpg

http://i1242.photobucket.com/albums/...2/null-200.jpg

http://i1242.photobucket.com/albums/.../null-1906.jpg

http://i1242.photobucket.com/albums/.../null-1765.jpg

Hope you all likey!


0.1.0 Normal Ball Python
0.1.0 Columbian B.C.I. 2013
1.0.0 EBV Red Group Pastel Hypo Jungle B.C.I. 2013

So if you find a regurgitated rat in the tank how are you gunna decide who it came from?

Which breeders said it was ok? Drop names.

I'm just curious. Its GENERALLY frowned upon a bit. I'm not saying its impossible to do, some species of snakes even thrive with it, i just would never recommend it to a keeper who doesn't have a lot of experience with snakes.

This post shouldn't be read in an aggressive tone, i'm ONLY commenting because i care about the snakes. They look good though!

Congrats on your new pick ups

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Mike41793

So if you find a regurgitated rat in the tank how are you gunna decide who it came from?

*Well if I find a 1.5lb super jumbo rat I'm pretty sure it's the female who did it, and if I find a large rat then I know who did that as well...

Which breeders said it was ok? Drop names.

*The Serpentarium in Lodi, and Shedskin as well are the two main breeders I can think of.

I'm just curious. Its GENERALLY frowned upon a bit. I'm not saying its impossible to do, some species of snakes even thrive with it, i just would never recommend it to a keeper who doesn't have a lot of experience with snakes.

*I wouldn't say I have "a lot" of experience, but I have a lot of common sense, and TONS of experience with many exotic animals, but not entirely snakes. These two are now my 6th and 7th snakes, I have had Beardies, Chinese water dragons, PAC man frogs, bullfrogs, and literally THOUSANDS of fish.

I'm not saying any of that makes me an expert, but I do have the common sense and attention to detail to house almost any animal, and learn their behavior and care requirements.

This post shouldn't be read in an aggressive tone, i'm ONLY commenting because i care about the snakes. They look good though!

*I don't take it as aggressive ;) and I care very much about my pets as well, very much so!

And thank you! I think they look beautiful as well! I'm excited to have a range of color morphs as well in my lineup. Especially jumping into a bigger constrictor so fast. So fun to handle a big girl, and constantly watch where she's wrapping, and where her head is. Def things you don't have to worry about so much with a 150g baby lol.

---

0.1.0 Normal Ball Python
0.1.0 Columbian B.C.I. 2013
1.0.0 EBV Red Group Pastel Hypo Jungle B.C.I. 2013

They really look great. I'm not sure I've ever heard cohabitation is looked at by most breeders as a positive. Info I've gotten is that WE may think the snakes are snuggling together but in reality they are competing for the same space and are very solitary creatures unless it is breeding time.

But I have read also that some boas have laid together outside a den entrance and used each other for increased heat during basking. I'm really not sure where BCs fall in the mix. I know gardener snakes will exist and thrive together.

Beyond all that, I think they look great and I'm stoked for you!

I think IF you decide to house them together, you should get the biggest enclosure possible.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Mike41793

So if you find a regurgitated rat in the tank how are you gunna decide who it came from?

Which breeders said it was ok? Drop names.

I'm just curious. Its GENERALLY frowned upon a bit. I'm not saying its impossible to do, some species of snakes even thrive with it, i just would never recommend it to a keeper who doesn't have a lot of experience with snakes.

This post shouldn't be read in an aggressive tone, i'm ONLY commenting because i care about the snakes. They look good though!

---

This is one reason I asked as well. And I mean no offense either in my next few words....

Boas are very solitary creatures. They may be found "curling up together" but they don't do that to be social or because they like each other. They are doing it because they are competing for the same temperature spot/comfort zone. And they are likely stressing because there's another snake in their way.

If you aren't going to feed them together, are you going to feed them both in a separate container? It is very stressful for a snake to be fed outside it's enclosure and it's a myth that they will develop cage aggression if they aren't moved. It is better for them to be fed in their home and then to be left alone afterwards. Also, a regurgitated rat looks NOTHING like it did when it was first eaten - I doubt you could tell them apart by the size.

It IS possible for experienced keepers to house certain snake species in communal habitats, but it is not generally recommended for the average keeper. I've had snakes for years and I'd never do it with the species I keep (most of which are boas). You will see a decline in their health over time if you continue to keep them together.

And a male and a female WILL breed. Are you prepared for the 30+ babies a large female boa can have in one litter???

If you truly care about your snakes (and I can tell that you do), the very best thing you can do for them is to give them separate homes. :gj:

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Evenstar

This is one reason I asked as well. And I mean no offense either in my next few words....

Boas are very solitary creatures. They may be found "curling up together" but they don't do that to be social or because they like each other. They are doing it because they are competing for the same temperature spot/comfort zone. And they are likely stressing because there's another snake in their way.

If you aren't going to feed them together, are you going to feed them both in a separate container? It is very stressful for a snake to be fed outside it's enclosure and it's a myth that they will develop cage aggression if they aren't moved. It is better for them to be fed in their home and then to be left alone afterwards. Also, a regurgitated rat looks NOTHING like it did when it was first eaten - I doubt you could tell them apart by the size.

It IS possible for experienced keepers to house certain snake species in communal habitats, but it is not generally recommended for the average keeper. I've had snakes for years and I'd never do it with the species I keep (most of which are boas). You will see a decline in their health over time if you continue to keep them together.

And a male and a female WILL breed. Are you prepared for the 30+ babies a large female boa can have in one litter???

If you truly care about your snakes (and I can tell that you do), the very best thing you can do for them is to give them separate homes. :gj:

---

Hey if I need to house them separate so be it. I have no problem giving them what they need.

As far a distinguishing prey items apart, I highly doubt a near rabbit size meal will degrade enough in their stomach where I can't tell the difference between it and a medium/large rat.

And as far as breeding, I absolutely HOPE that she has 30+ neonates, heck I hope for 60! Although I doubt her first season she will produce even 30.

To be quite honest, I have seen almost ALL boas kept together ranging in size, and have had no less than 10 keepers/breeders with very healthy animals being kept this way. In fact both of these animals were kept this way before I acquired them.

Not saying any or all of you are wrong, but I have seen it both ways, and have yet to see a detrimental effect from housing together. If even the slightest issue arises, they will be kept separate no questions asked.


0.1.0 Normal Ball Python
0.1.0 Columbian B.C.I. 2013
1.0.0 EBV Red Group Pastel Hypo Jungle B.C.I. 2013

Listen to anything Evenstar says about boas. She has yet to steer me wrong and I am absolutely loving the decision to add a BCL to my collection. So much so that little girl will be an arm band tattoo before too long.
She is a fountain of knowledge on these wonderful snakes.

I would normally agree 100% with evenstar (and the rest of you). however this is one where our opinions differ just a bit. I also have heard for years that breeders leave males and females together about 11 months out of the year. that 12th month is when the female is about to drop her brood. I also have housed boas together successfully in the past and never seen their health deteriorate over any amount of time. Do any of you have studies to back up this idea? or have any of you personally seen it within your own collection? have you even ever tried to house 2 boas together long term? I'm not suggesting just anyone should do it. there are a lot of things to consider to do it correctly. certainly just having one big enclosure with a hot spot, a cold side, and a couple hides doesnt justify throwing 2 snakes in together. but it can/does get done safely and effectively. As for the whole "what if theres a regurge" issue..... I'm sorry but if one of my snakes regurges i've got bigger issues than trying to figure out which one did it. i'm checking temps, heat pads, T-stats, and my stock of prey to see why there was a regurge. Boas are solitary animals except during breeding. you shouldnt house them together. Youre doing it all wrong. hey op..... Find someone (probably one of the 10ish breeders that told you it was ok) and ask them what they are doing and how they are doing it and for how long they've been doing it. make an educated decision on what you want to try. I dont give a rats hiney which way you choose to do it. but make an informed decision, keep acurate records, keep us posted on how they are doing, keep the pics coming, and if you are successful in what ever method you choose write a book about it called The New Guide to Boa Husbandry Bible So we all have a reference to point to when we tell some one thats not the way to do it! Instead of cuz I said so. :soapbx:

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by H.o.F.R

I would normally agree 100% with evenstar (and the rest of you). however this is one where our opinions differ just a bit. I also have heard for years that breeders leave males and females together about 11 months out of the year. that 12th month is when the female is about to drop her brood. I also have housed boas together successfully in the past and never seen their health deteriorate over any amount of time. Do any of you have studies to back up this idea? or have any of you personally seen it within your own collection? have you even ever tried to house 2 boas together long term? I'm not suggesting just anyone should do it. there are a lot of things to consider to do it correctly. certainly just having one big enclosure with a hot spot, a cold side, and a couple hides doesnt justify throwing 2 snakes in together. but it can/does get done safely and effectively. As for the whole "what if theres a regurge" issue..... I'm sorry but if one of my snakes regurges i've got bigger issues than trying to figure out which one did it. i'm checking temps, heat pads, T-stats, and my stock of prey to see why there was a regurge. Boas are solitary animals except during breeding. you shouldnt house them together. Youre doing it all wrong. hey op..... Find someone (probably one of the 10ish breeders that told you it was ok) and ask them what they are doing and how they are doing it and for how long they've been doing it. make an educated decision on what you want to try. I dont give a rats hiney which way you choose to do it. but make an informed decision, keep acurate records, keep us posted on how they are doing, keep the pics coming, and if you are successful in what ever method you choose write a book about it called The New Guide to Boa Husbandry Bible So we all have a reference to point to when we tell some one thats not the way to do it! Instead of cuz I said so. :soapbx:

---

Man, I don't know if that was supportive, offensive, defensive, indifferent, sarcastic, or none of the above lol.

Basically I will take advice if it is sound and works for me, and I promise all of you that I will give my babies the utmost care and attention.

If I do something wrong, shout it out. I want to take good care of them.

Also be aware tho that these are not my first snakes or reptiles.

Right now we have 12 snakes in my house and all are doing very well.


0.1.0 Normal Ball Python
0.1.0 Columbian B.C.I. 2013
1.0.0 EBV Red Group Pastel Hypo Jungle B.C.I. 2013

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Expensive hobby

Man, I don't know if that was supportive, offensive, defensive, indifferent, sarcastic, or none of the above lol.

Basically I will take advice if it is sound and works for me, and I promise all of you that I will give my babies the utmost care and attention.

If I do something wrong, shout it out. I want to take good care of them.

Also be aware tho that these are not my first snakes or reptiles.

Right now we have 12 snakes in my house and all are doing very well.


0.1.0 Normal Ball Python
0.1.0 Columbian B.C.I. 2013
1.0.0 EBV Red Group Pastel Hypo Jungle B.C.I. 2013

---

Lmao! Maybe a Lil bit of all the above. I'm sorry for the rant I haven't slept in days due to personal drama and it just rubbed me the wrong way. Seemed like you were getting gang banged over a subject that I know personally can be done safely. If you ask a lot of the so called experts in the hobby there are 3 ways of doing anything. The wrong way (bad things happen), the right way (popular general consensus that seems to work well), and the way they do it because it works for them. I guess all I was getting at is however you do it take notes of what works and what don't and share the knowledge. Good luck and enjoy those cuties!

Lol thanks. It was a good rant btw. I've noticed some very conflicting advice on this site when it comes to boas. Most times that I see advice that I don't necessarily agree with, it's someone ripping another person for how they care for their boa. Funny thing is most often it's a BP keeper telling a boa keeper that they are wrong and "this is how's it's done."

Kinda like everybody is an expert on all snakes lol.

On a side note there is tons of info on this site that is sound, and correct.


0.1.0 Normal Ball Python
0.1.0 Columbian B.C.I. 2013
1.0.0 EBV Red Group Pastel Hypo Jungle B.C.I. 2013

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Expensive hobby

Lol thanks. It was a good rant btw. I've noticed some very conflicting advice on this site when it comes to boas. Most times that I see advice that I don't necessarily agree with, it's someone ripping another person for how they care for their boa. Funny thing is most often it's a BP keeper telling a boa keeper that they are wrong and "this is how's it's done."

Kinda like everybody is an expert on all snakes lol.

On a side note there is tons of info on this site that is sound, and correct.


0.1.0 Normal Ball Python
0.1.0 Columbian B.C.I. 2013
1.0.0 EBV Red Group Pastel Hypo Jungle B.C.I. 2013

---

Evenstar is one of our resident boa experts imo. I respect her advice and opinions highly but there are other ways to do stuff that isn't the so called "norm" that work well for some people. I am not an expert and have just recently gotten back into boas after a decade hiatus. But if you decide to keep yours together pm me and ill be happy to share what little experiences I have had in the matter.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by H.o.F.R

Evenstar is one of our resident boa experts imo. I respect her advice and opinions highly but there are other ways to do stuff that isn't the so called "norm" that work well for some people. I am not an expert and have just recently gotten back into boas after a decade hiatus. But if you decide to keep yours together pm me and ill be happy to share what little experiences I have had in the matter.

---

Well thank you :)

I appreciate the help.


0.1.0 Normal Ball Python
0.1.0 Columbian B.C.I. 2013
1.0.0 EBV Red Group Pastel Hypo Jungle B.C.I. 2013

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by H.o.F.R

I would normally agree 100% with evenstar (and the rest of you). however this is one where our opinions differ just a bit. I also have heard for years that breeders leave males and females together about 11 months out of the year. that 12th month is when the female is about to drop her brood. I also have housed boas together successfully in the past and never seen their health deteriorate over any amount of time. Do any of you have studies to back up this idea? or have any of you personally seen it within your own collection? have you even ever tried to house 2 boas together long term? I'm not suggesting just anyone should do it. there are a lot of things to consider to do it correctly. certainly just having one big enclosure with a hot spot, a cold side, and a couple hides doesnt justify throwing 2 snakes in together. but it can/does get done safely and effectively. As for the whole "what if theres a regurge" issue..... I'm sorry but if one of my snakes regurges i've got bigger issues than trying to figure out which one did it. i'm checking temps, heat pads, T-stats, and my stock of prey to see why there was a regurge. Boas are solitary animals except during breeding. you shouldnt house them together. Youre doing it all wrong. hey op..... Find someone (probably one of the 10ish breeders that told you it was ok) and ask them what they are doing and how they are doing it and for how long they've been doing it. make an educated decision on what you want to try. I dont give a rats hiney which way you choose to do it. but make an informed decision, keep acurate records, keep us posted on how they are doing, keep the pics coming, and if you are successful in what ever method you choose write a book about it called The New Guide to Boa Husbandry Bible So we all have a reference to point to when we tell some one thats not the way to do it! Instead of cuz I said so. :soapbx:

---

I don't think anybody was ripping on him. The studies you asked for are pretty much field observations that state boas are solitary and do not live in groups. Russo, Rentfro and actual herpetologists like O'shea note their observations in the wild. Some exceptions include groups of thermo regulating boas and breeding broods. Male boas WILL fight over territory and a female. Your point is noted in captivity and I believe it can be done but with some added risk. Nothing bad may ever happen but in general most agree they are more comfortable alone. No disrespect to you or your point. Just did not want you to think anybody was being a killjoy because they said separate is more advisable. As you said do what works best for you and take notes.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Evenstar

It IS possible for experienced keepers to house certain snake species in communal habitats, but it is not generally recommended for the average keeper. I've had snakes for years and I'd never do it with the species I keep (most of which are boas). You will see a decline in their health over time if you continue to keep them together.

---

Just emphasizing what I said earlier. It is definitely possible to keep 2 snakes together, just not generally the best way to keep them.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Expensive hobby

Man, I don't know if that was supportive, offensive, defensive, indifferent, sarcastic, or none of the above lol.

Basically I will take advice if it is sound and works for me, and I promise all of you that I will give my babies the utmost care and attention.

If I do something wrong, shout it out. I want to take good care of them.

Also be aware tho that these are not my first snakes or reptiles.

Right now we have 12 snakes in my house and all are doing very well.

---

Never said you were a beginner. And I also said I could tell you cared about your snakes very much. :gj:

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by H.o.F.R

Lmao! Maybe a Lil bit of all the above. I'm sorry for the rant I haven't slept in days due to personal drama and it just rubbed me the wrong way. Seemed like you were getting gang banged over a subject that I know personally can be done safely. If you ask a lot of the so called experts in the hobby there are 3 ways of doing anything. The wrong way (bad things happen), the right way (popular general consensus that seems to work well), and the way they do it because it works for them. I guess all I was getting at is however you do it take notes of what works and what don't and share the knowledge. Good luck and enjoy those cuties!

---

Not jumping down anyone's throat. Just had a concern and expressed it. ;)

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Expensive hobby

Lol thanks. It was a good rant btw. I've noticed some very conflicting advice on this site when it comes to boas. Most times that I see advice that I don't necessarily agree with, it's someone ripping another person for how they care for their boa. Funny thing is most often it's a BP keeper telling a boa keeper that they are wrong and "this is how's it's done."

Kinda like everybody is an expert on all snakes lol.

On a side note there is tons of info on this site that is sound, and correct.

---

Just want to be clear here. I keep boas. I have BCI and BCO. I do have 2 resident ball pythons (and a couple of other species), but I do not frequent the BP forums. I haunt the boa threads, lol. I don't offer much advise on BPs because that is not my area of expertise. I like BP.net because of its friendly atmosphere, but I converse on the boa forums almost exclusively. The advise I offer is based on YEARS of experience and research. This doesn't mean that my methods are the only way of doing things and it doesn't mean I am always right. But it is what it is - sound advise whether you agree with it or not. And you don't have to. Remember, I did say that it IS possible to successfully house multiple snakes together, just that it is not generally recommended.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by H.o.F.R

Evenstar is one of our resident boa experts imo. I respect her advice and opinions highly but there are other ways to do stuff that isn't the so called "norm" that work well for some people. I am not an expert and have just recently gotten back into boas after a decade hiatus. But if you decide to keep yours together pm me and ill be happy to share what little experiences I have had in the matter.

---

Thanks Damon! :gj:

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Gio

I don't think anybody was ripping on him. The studies you asked for are pretty much field observations that state boas are solitary and do not live in groups. Russo, Rentfro and actual herpetologists like O'shea note their observations in the wild. Some exceptions include groups of thermo regulating boas and breeding broods. Male boas WILL fight over territory and a female. Your point is noted in captivity and I believe it can be done but with some added risk. Nothing bad may ever happen but in general most agree they are more comfortable alone. No disrespect to you or your point. Just did not want you to think anybody was being a killjoy because they said separate is more advisable. As you said do what works best for you and take notes.

---

Definitely was not ripping on him at all. Thanks for referencing those experts Gio - was planning on doing that and you beat me to it! LoL....

The important thing for anyone to take away from this thread is to do your research!! Make educated decisions! If your lifestyle and personal situations lead you to keep your snakes a certain way and you manage to keep them healthy and stress-free that way, than I am the last person to tell you that you are doing it wrong. :gj:

Just my 2 cents, I wholeheartedly trust information from Evenstar.

Grats on the new boas!

I too, would house them separately.

Totally feeding related but this shows they are NOT friends. These are pythons and this is obviously a battle over a food item but you can see the solitary nature here.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DnfrzVAyMy4

There is a hierarchy amongst many mammals like lions, wolves and such. Most snakes don't share pack mentality and really do fend for themselves.

Again I'm NOT saying anybody is right or wrong, and I know captivity has it's own set of rules and any time there is human intervention there are a lot of factors that change but I truly believe that when herpetologists explain that snakes, including boas are solitary they have some fairly researched info.

Hats off to anybody who can make it work. I think it's for sure doable. Coming from a PET owner situation only and NOT being a breeder I have no reason to put two snakes together. If I had 2 boas, I would enjoy them just the same in their individual enclosures.

If I could not house 2 separately, I simply would only have one.

Again, this is just what works for me. It's been stated that people have and do have success housing boas together.

I can not argue with it.

I can only say that for the most part boas are solitary animals.

Peace out and NO hard feelings to anybody!!

^^^ Very well said. :gj:



I really REALLY hate the fact that this is a picture of ball pythons since, as was mentioned above, we are discussing BOAS, but it is still relevant and provides a pretty accurate picture of what can happen when two snakes are housed together....

*** Warning - graphic!






http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/...eeatssnake.jpg

Just an FYI, I am not your average PET owner even though I just own one boa and one Royal as a pet. I go through somewhat berserk amounts of research on animals I own. Including the dogs that I have been protection training for the last 13 years.

IF you are at all interested in boas and big constricting snakes there are several books and research pages available.

This particular web page caught my attention a while back and I bookmarked it.
http://pubs.usgs.gov/of/2009/1202/pdf/OF09-1202.pdf

You can see the massive amount of research and sighting involved here. Several experts are mentioned in this work.

Though it is not specific to our conversation here, there is mention of boas going "solo" in the wild. However there is also mention of some denning together in Dominica and some laying side by side during basking for increased thermo regulatory benefits.

I'm sorry this is WAY of topic and I really only wanted to tell Expensive Hobby I was excited and enjoyed the snakes. I loved the pics and only wish for good things.

My ONLY mention of the separate caging was based on research and good advice from credible keepers like Evenstar and a whole host of other captive owner breeders.

Outside of that, I'm a complete nobody.

Enjoy this link though. If you like constrictors, it's a good read.

FYI. You have to scroll a long way down to get to the parts that include the BC.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Gio

Just an FYI, I am not your average PET owner even though I just own one boa and one Royal as a pet. I go through somewhat berserk amounts of research on animals I own. Including the dogs that I have been protection training for the last 13 years.

IF you are at all interested in boas and big constricting snakes there are several books and research pages available.

This particular web page caught my attention a while back and I bookmarked it.
http://pubs.usgs.gov/of/2009/1202/pdf/OF09-1202.pdf

You can see the massive amount of research and sighting involved here. Several experts are mentioned in this work.

Though it is not specific to our conversation here, there is mention of boas going "solo" in the wild. However there is also mention of some denning together in Dominica and some laying side by side during basking for increased thermo regulatory benefits.

I'm sorry this is WAY of topic and I really only wanted to tell Expensive Hobby I was excited and enjoyed the snakes. I loved the pics and only wish for good things.

My ONLY mention of the separate caging was based on research and good advice from credible keepers like Evenstar and a whole host of other captive owner breeders.

Outside of that, I'm a complete nobody.

Enjoy this link though. If you like constrictors, it's a good read.

FYI. You have to scroll a long way down to get to the parts that include the BC.

---

Well guys I'm gonna be gone for a week reading that research lol. 398 page, of very small point font lol. No doubt lots of info!

Thank you for the link. I will be referring to that for a long time.



On a side note: my hot spot is achieved using 2 panels of flexwatt, achieving a temp of 91° and my ambients are 75°, and cold side is 72°. I'm sure it needs to be adjusted a bit, and my humidity is sky high, so I will probably be adding a heat bulb to help dry things up a little and raise ambients.

That said, my hot side seems right, and my male loves it, but my female seems to favor the cool side. Any thoughts on this?


0.1.0 Normal Ball Python
0.1.0 Columbian B.C.I. 2013
1.0.0 EBV Red Group Pastel Hypo Jungle B.C.I. 2013

Well, right now, they are probably seeking a position in the cage where they feel the most secure since your home is a new environment for them. Once they settle in and realize there's no boogy man waiting for them, they'll start to thermoregulate more.

As you've noted, your temps need to be adjusted a wee bit. I've found that my boas tend to like slightly cooler temps than my pythons. And the Argentines like it even cooler. I keep my BCIs at 77-78 ambient with an 88 hotspot. Humidity is good at about 60% +/-.

I've also found that belly heat seems to be better for babies, but radiant heat panels do fine for adults if that is what the keeper wants to do.



Hey Gio - thanks for posting that link! I think I'm gonna be on vacay for awhile reading that too.......... :P

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Evenstar

Well, right now, they are probably seeking a position in the cage where they feel the most secure since your home is a new environment for them. Once they settle in and realize there's no boogy man waiting for them, they'll start to thermoregulate more.

As you've noted, your temps need to be adjusted a wee bit. I've found that my boas tend to like slightly cooler temps than my pythons. And the Argentines like it even cooler. I keep my BCIs at 77-78 ambient with an 88 hotspot. Humidity is good at about 60% +/-.

I've also found that belly heat seems to be better for babies, but radiant heat panels do fine for adults if that is what the keeper wants to do.



Hey Gio - thanks for posting that link! I think I'm gonna be on vacay for awhile reading that too.......... :P

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Ok thank you for that info. I will be switching to pro-products RHP's in the near future, but I had 5' of flexwatt laying around so I used it to get the enclosure ready. I wasn't planning on purchasing a 7' female and 4.5' male when I went to go window shopping at the Serpentarium lol.


0.1.0 Normal Ball Python
0.1.0 Columbian B.C.I. 2013
1.0.0 EBV Red Group Pastel Hypo Jungle B.C.I. 2013

Here's some updates on the two:

Big girl laying on top of her cold side hide:
http://i1242.photobucket.com/albums/.../null-2128.jpg

My big boy chomping down some grub(3rd day home already eating)
http://i1242.photobucket.com/albums/.../null-1854.jpg

Apparently big boas move their hides to their desired location lol:
http://i1242.photobucket.com/albums/.../null-1841.jpg

And a whole tank shot this evening(note earlier temps daytime and current picture night time)
http://i1242.photobucket.com/albums/.../null-1099.jpg

Think I got the temps adjusted properly now...

91° inside the hot side hide daytime, 88° nighttime.

90° just outside the warm side hide and under water tub daytime, 88° nighttime.

78° ambient daytime, 75° nighttime.

78° cold side daytime, 75° nighttime.

All on a 6ft glass tank. Just had to give everything time to balance.


0.1.0 Normal Ball Python
0.1.0 Columbian B.C.I. 2013
1.0.0 EBV Red Group Pastel Hypo Jungle B.C.I. 2013

I won't get into the rest of the discussion, so I'll say gorgeous pickups. I always love boa's.

One thing I will say is I wouldn't house them to together, honestly because if one got sick it just makes it that much easier to get the other one sick. That's just my point of view though.

As far as feeding outside of the enclosures, I did it from meal 3 of my yellow anaconda until she was around 8 foot. I did this because I didn't want her to swallow any cypress mulch, not that it would of harmed her and my girl never showed any signs of stress and never once even attempted to bite me.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Expensive hobby

Here's some updates on the two:

Big girl laying on top of her cold side hide:
http://i1242.photobucket.com/albums/.../null-2128.jpg

My big boy chomping down some grub(3rd day home already eating)
http://i1242.photobucket.com/albums/.../null-1854.jpg

Apparently big boas move their hides to their desired location lol:
http://i1242.photobucket.com/albums/.../null-1841.jpg

And a whole tank shot this evening(note earlier temps daytime and current picture night time)
http://i1242.photobucket.com/albums/.../null-1099.jpg

Think I got the temps adjusted properly now...

91° inside the hot side hide daytime, 88° nighttime.

90° just outside the warm side hide and under water tub daytime, 88° nighttime.

78° ambient daytime, 75° nighttime.

78° cold side daytime, 75° nighttime.

All on a 6ft glass tank. Just had to give everything time to balance.


0.1.0 Normal Ball Python
0.1.0 Columbian B.C.I. 2013
1.0.0 EBV Red Group Pastel Hypo Jungle B.C.I. 2013

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Anything on this? Temps etc?


0.1.0 Normal Ball Python
0.1.0 Colombian B.C.I. 2013
1.0.0 EBV Red Group Pastel Hypo Jungle B.C.I. 2013
1.0.0 Hypo Colombian B.C.I 2011
0.1.0 Anery Colombian B.C.I 2010

Temps seem darn close to just right. If your boas eat well and shed perfectly, then you are good to go! Humidity may be tricky in a tank, but not impossible. Everything looks fine. They will outgrow those hides though... LoL! :D

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Evenstar

Temps seem darn close to just right. If your boas eat well and shed perfectly, then you are good to go! Humidity may be tricky in a tank, but not impossible. Everything looks fine. They will outgrow those hides though... LoL! :D

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Ok thank you. Ya I'm working on new enclosures for all my slithery friends lol.

The girls will most likely get 8x3x2 and the boys will get 4x2x2 or 6x2x2 depending on their size. All separate enclosures, but stacked. And a little one for my ball.

The 135g fish tank was setup and only had to move 2 fish to free it up so I used it lol.

And as far as hides, they always have larger totes at Walmart and Home Depot lol.


0.1.0 Normal Ball Python
0.1.0 Colombian B.C.I. 2013
1.0.0 EBV Red Group Pastel Hypo Jungle B.C.I. 2013
1.0.0 Hypo Colombian B.C.I 2011
0.1.0 Anery Colombian B.C.I 2010

Looks like you are dialed in! I think you'll continue to change and improve your setup. I still keep messing with mine. Either new substrate or a new climbing deal. I'm ready for another kind of hot side hide now.

Have fun as you have some cool snakes!

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Expensive hobby

Ok thank you. Ya I'm working on new enclosures for all my slithery friends lol.

The girls will most likely get 8x3x2 and the boys will get 4x2x2 or 6x2x2 depending on their size. All separate enclosures, but stacked. And a little one for my ball.

The 135g fish tank was setup and only had to move 2 fish to free it up so I used it lol.

And as far as hides, they always have larger totes at Walmart and Home Depot lol.

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That sounds sweet!! Boas will use every bit of space you give them so the bigger the better! :gj:

Inexpensive tip: Kitty litter pans make GREAT hides for boas! ;)

Update:

Big girl ate for the first time with me today!

http://i1242.photobucket.com/albums/.../null-2058.jpg

Took a 405g rat. A little undersized but figure start small for the first feeding and work our way up.

She should be on about a 750g rat, which basically means she should be on rabbits by now.

Her official weight was 10.8lbs! She has some gaining to do lol


0.1.0 Normal Ball Python
0.1.0 Colombian B.C.I. 2013
1.0.0 EBV Red Group Pastel Hypo Jungle B.C.I. 2013
1.0.0 Hypo Colombian B.C.I 2011
0.1.0 Anery Colombian B.C.I 2010

Whoa,, she is a big girl!!

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Gio

Whoa,, she is a big girl!!

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Thank you. She's a puppy dog too! Super calm. I won't say "tame" but she is very laid back, moves fast when she wants, but hasn't struck at me, hissed at me, anything at all. Def got lucky with her.


0.1.0 Normal Ball Python
0.1.0 Colombian B.C.I. 2013
1.0.0 EBV Red Group Pastel Hypo Jungle B.C.I. 2013
1.0.0 Hypo Colombian B.C.I 2011
0.1.0 Anery Colombian B.C.I 2010

UpDaTe TiMe!

Took my new boas to the vet today, and got a quote of $439 each! Plus an additional $46.93 every 3 days each for antibiotics.

Needless to say ouch!

I'll do the math for everyone, that's $1,159.58 for an office exam, a fecal, bloodwork, antibiotics, and X-Rays for both snakes! And that's not including a culture and micro to boot!

Snakes are expensive haha. Good thing I've got this username.


0.1.0 Normal Ball Python
0.1.0 Colombian B.C.I. 2013
1.0.0 EBV Red Group Pastel Hypo Jungle B.C.I. 2013
1.0.0 Hypo Colombian B.C.I 2011
0.1.0 Anery Colombian B.C.I 2010

Good Lord!! Is that typical of a reptile vet exam?

I've had titanium teeth put on my dogs for about that price and that's a full scale dental surgery.

Expensive Hobby needs to be "Hit The Lottery" soon LOL!

Maybe I missed it, but what are the antibiotics for?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by MootWorm

Maybe I missed it, but what are the antibiotics for?

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Never made mention of it publicly but when I got them, they both had some small issues.

Male had some facial swelling from a broken tooth, and the female had a rat bite on her nose, both from the previous owners.


0.1.0 Normal Ball Python
0.1.0 Colombian B.C.I. 2013
1.0.0 EBV Red Group Pastel Hypo Jungle B.C.I. 2013
1.0.0 Hypo Colombian B.C.I 2011
0.1.0 Anery Colombian B.C.I 2010

Ouch. How long is the course their on?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by MootWorm

Ouch. How long is the course their on?

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It's supposed to be 3 total, one every 3 days.


0.1.0 Normal Ball Python
0.1.0 Colombian B.C.I. 2013
1.0.0 EBV Red Group Pastel Hypo Jungle B.C.I. 2013
1.0.0 Hypo Colombian B.C.I 2011
0.1.0 Anery Colombian B.C.I 2010

Why can't you administer the antibiotics yourself?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Annarose15

Why can't you administer the antibiotics yourself?

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I asked several times but they said they have to administer fluids at the same time because the meds are very hard on their livers. Only being a 3 treatment course means it must be pretty strong


0.1.0 Normal Ball Python
0.1.0 Colombian B.C.I. 2013
1.0.0 EBV Red Group Pastel Hypo Jungle B.C.I. 2013
1.0.0 Hypo Colombian B.C.I 2011
0.1.0 Anery Colombian B.C.I 2010

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Expensive hobby

I asked several times but they said they have to administer fluids at the same time because the meds are very hard on their livers. Only being a 3 treatment course means it must be pretty strong


0.1.0 Normal Ball Python
0.1.0 Colombian B.C.I. 2013
1.0.0 EBV Red Group Pastel Hypo Jungle B.C.I. 2013
1.0.0 Hypo Colombian B.C.I 2011
0.1.0 Anery Colombian B.C.I 2010

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That's new to me, but I'm not a vet. Good luck with your babies!