My question of the day to the multi snakers.

[Argentra]

Boas are indeed awesome snakes. My favorite is the BRB - Brazilian Rainbow Boa, and second is the BCI.

But do remember, whatever boa you might end up with, to quarantine it well away from your Ball for at least 3 months as boas can all be carriers of IBD. Sorry to bring up something so 'morbid', but it had to be said.

Now, with that out of the way I wish you much luck in finding just the right boa and convincing your beloved that it's a wonderful snake to have around.

[Daybreaker]

But do remember, whatever boa you might end up with, to quarantine it well away from your Ball for at least 3 months as boas can all be carriers of IBD. Sorry to bring up something so 'morbid', but it had to be said.

IBD isn't as common as some people think, it seems to happen very rarely in people's collections. I would worry more about mites and other common illnesses passing to current snakes as those are much more common problems than IBD. I would always go to a reputable breeder for any snake purchase, and I too practice the 3 months rule as well though I know some QT for up to 6 months or more.
Here's a good thread on some IBD info: http://redtailboa.net/forums/health-...y-disease.html

[Kara]

Blood pythons' temperaments can vary greatly depending on origin, lineage, and how much time/handling you're willing to put into them. Most good, CBB blood pythons are pretty easy to tame, and are no worse than say, young carpet pythons or Brazilian rainbow boas (both of which can also be nippy). If you're intimidated by bloods but like the body type, consider either of the short-tailed pythons (Borneo & Sumatran). Both tend to be relatively calm & easygoing right from the start (again, this can vary by lineage). If temperament is a big deal to you, then it would make sense to talk to breeders with long-term experience working with these snakes, and let them know about your experience level and expectations up front. The majority of blood & STP keepers who are serious about these animals also want to help others enjoy them, and usually can help match you up with just the right snake.

During the past 15 years I've kept every species discussed in this thread, as well as many others that haven't been mentioned...and bloods & STPs rank at the very top of my list for all-time favorites. If you can find a keeper local to you who's willing to mentor you or at least help you get some hands-on experience with them, that will give you a lot of perspective. They're wonderful snakes, especially when you understand what they're all about.


$.02...

[devildog_dk]

I would also say go with a BCI or a Dumeril's boa based on what you described.

I love my dumeril's to death but she was a pain in the tail end to get eating until I caved and got her something live. I've been trying to convert her (i.e. 2 hrs ago) but she just flat out isn't interested in f/t, and from what I've read that can be typical of young ones but they tend to be garbage disposals once they grow up. Plus the fat adult female dumeril's the friend I get my live feeders from has that my gf was talking about is about the biggest sweetheart a snake can be, and even my young one isn't the slightest bit nippy even when she's stressed.

I also have a baby BCC female that is totally calm and handleable, but keep in mind that not all snakes are alike. And as a generality young boas can be defensive and nippy but they can also quickly grow out of it. And a big difference between a BCC and a BCI is size, unless you're talking about a male a BCC will typically be larger than an BCI. Males can go either way really.

Bottom line, based on what you said a boa would be the way to go, just make sure you practice proper quarantine procedure to protect your established BP.

[Gio]

WOW! Thanks to each and every one of you. I have A LOT of time. My wife will need major convincing. Really because of all the great advice, it's still a tough decision, but I feel like a BCI or a male BCC might be the way to go. I like the slightly more active and curious aspect of the snake. I love the attitude of the Dumerils and the size and length and thickness of the Bloods. The Carpets were mentioned, and I can see really digging them.

I'm not sure why, really, I have no idea, but for some reason PYTHON seems so interesting to me. Maybe it's because we have a Royal and it's gone so well. It seems natural to go from ball to blood but I feel that the folks here seem to think BCI or BCC might be the perfect snake for me.

I'm glad I have a lot of time LOL!

Thanks to all of you!!!

[DooLittle]

One more bump for a BCI. We got our guy at just over a month old and he is the sweetest, most curious, active little guy. Never even dreamed of striking. Just get your wife to hold one. They are very docile, our 8 year old handles ours by herself, and at a very young age, he went to show and tell, and did not show any signs of stress. Love, love, love him!!

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