Richard Owen

Rainbow Boa Richard Owen

Named for the rainbow-like sheen cast by their scales, rainbow boas (Epicrates spp.) are among the most beautiful snakes in the world. In fact, because they are aesthetically appealing, possess calm personalities and remain smaller than many gigantic constrictors, rainbow boas have become some of the most popular snakes in the world. This popularity has led many keepers to breed rainbow boas, thereby making it easy for enthusiasts to work with these snakes. Whereas snake hobbyists in the past only had access to imported, wild-caught individuals, who were irritable and riddled with parasites, modern keepers can choose from the scads of captive bred rainbow boas produced each year. However, like all other snake species, keepers must educate themselves about their new pet to have a good chance at success. Keepers that fail to do so rarely keep their new pet healthy for very long. Begin this educational journey inside, by learning about the natural history, taxonomy, behavior, biology, captive care and breeding habits of rainbow boas.