Rosy Boa

This page is educational reference material for preparing questions. A licensed veterinarian examines the animal, makes the diagnosis, and sets the treatment.

A small boa that stays small

Rosy boas, Lichanura, are the desert boas of the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. Adults are usually 2 to 4 feet. Twenty-five to 30 years or more is easy to skip when the snake looks simple. Care level is beginner: a dry tank, a thermostat, and mice.

Localities differ in color. A coastal animal and a desert animal are still rosy boas. Keep the cool side in the 70s and the warm side up toward 90°F, inside a 72 to 90°F band. Humidity stays low, about 30 to 40 percent. Aspen or a dry soil mix, two hides, and a water bowl are the furniture. Twenty gallons is a starting size and small for a long adult. Go longer rather than taller.

Mice, and a tight lid

Thawed mice match the body. They are not huge feeders. A snake that refuses through winter may be cooling off. A snake that refuses in summer, or that loses weight, needs a look. They climb just enough to test a loose lid. House one snake per cage.

Captive-bred animals are the ones to buy. Some localities are protected. A stuck shed on the tail tip rots if you ignore it. Clinics that see snakes are listed by ARAV.

Rosy boa questions

How long do rosy boas live?

25 to 30 years or more. That is a long life for a snake this small. Plan on an adult snake, not a short project.

Do rosy boas need high humidity?

No. The range is 30 to 40 percent. A wet tank causes bad sheds and blistered bellies. A humid hide during shed is enough extra moisture.

Are rosy boas handleable?

They are slow and usually calm. Support the body. A hungry rosy boa will still mistake a warm hand for food, so wash before you pick one up.