Best pythons or boas??

[vivi]

What are some pythons or boas that can suitably live in a 40 gallon enclosure *as an adult*?

[bcr229]

Other than a ball python?

Male Tarahumara Boa
Savu Python, Anthill Python, or Childrens Python

[vivi]

Yeah, other than a BP, I know that. Thanks for the suggestions.

[dakski]

Many dwarf boas will be fine in there, as will ball pythons, and the pythons bcr229 mentioned.

An issue you might have with a 40G is humidity, and to a lesser degree, temperature control.

Do you mind me asking why you are set on a 40G?

That might make a difference in where you go from here as well. If it's space, cost, etc. that might help us find something for you. Space wise, you might still have PVC as an option and that might make it easier to care for any of the above species. If it's cost, make sure you understand the tank is probably the cheapest component. You will need heating elements, thermostat(s), etc.

Many people on here do fine with glass enclosures. If it's your only tank, and it's for a creature than needs high humidity, it's not a big deal. Covering the top, substrate, etc. are all ways to adapt. However, as/if your collection grows, like mine did, I found that it's easier to keep it simple. So I let the tanks do most of the work for me (in terms of holding humidity and thermostats and well sealed tanks = good temp control).

I know you didn't ask, but I'll say it anyway, many colubrids, like corn snakes, would be thrilled in a 40G and do not have the temperature and humidity requirements of many pythons and boas. I have 3 boas, a carpet python, a ball python, but also 2 corn snakes. They are beautiful and docile (generally) creatures. Of course, I love my boas, but if I had a 40G, and not the larger, PVC, setups I have for my boas, I'm not sure what direction I would go in.

Having said that, if you can handle the humidity requirements and temp requirements, any of the dwarf boas, BP's, etc. could work. I have a dwarf Venezuelan Red Tail/BC and he's amazing. However, I've had several breeders talk me out of some of the dwarf boas due to temperament. I am spoiled by my BI's and Feliz, my BC, is mostly just a little version of them in terms of his nature. He's incredibly docile, except when food is near, but that's just boas.

Anyway, I rambled, but I wanted to give you as much info as possible.

Let us know your thoughts and we are here to help!

[vivi]

Do you mind me asking why you are set on a 40G?

I'm not set on a 40G, I would gladly get a bigger one if I had enough space for it. (And... I already have a 40G so why not use it?)

Don't apologize for rambling, I appreciate all the info.

[Bogertophis]

I have good experience with an Australian spotted python & plenty of rosy boas. Of those, I prefer the spotted python as she never goes off feed in winter, but most
rosy boas will, though not as bad as BP's fasting. Aussie spotted pythons are about the size of an adult corn snake & very similar to Children's- mine prefers to be on
her branches/driftwood, & she is ever-vigilant, but still a good pet to handle (very strong grip though, not the snake to let tangle in long hair, LOL). They also prefer f/t small mice, whereas some rosy boas take more convincing for f/t. I do think that personalities differ, I can only say that I have no problem with her biting me at all (-my Aussie spot py, that is), but her appetite for f/t mice is always impressive.

[wnateg]

Viper boa!

[vivi]

Thanks for the insight Boger.

[vivi]

Viper boa!

Ooo, I've never heard of those, they certainly sound cool though. I just looked them up and they look awesome too, thanks for the suggestion!

[Bogertophis]

Ooo, I've never heard of those, they certainly sound cool though. I just looked them up and they look awesome too, thanks for the suggestion!

They'd be great based on size & appearance, but so far, difficult...better for advanced keepers, from what I've read. I think most are w/c too, so they'll be heavily-parasitized & you'd better have some savings for the exotic vet. I hope more ppl will keep working with them though, to get them figured out.

BTW, Aussie spotted pythons are NOT imported, they're c/b (captive bred) right here in the states- & that generally means a much better pet experience, with a healthy snake that's not parasitized & in need of vet care & which may not survive despite best efforts.