Boa Constrictor Imperator (BCI)

Boa constrictor imperator
Morph/Locality: Hypo Nicaraguan

Species Overview

• Size: Nicaraguan boas are a dwarf locality, averaging 4–6 feet (1.2–1.8 m) as adults. They are stockier and more compact than Colombian BCIs, with females typically larger than males.

• Appearance: The Hypomelanistic (Hypo) trait reduces black pigmentation, creating brighter and cleaner colours. In Nicaraguan boas, this results in a high-contrast animal with rich browns, creams, and oranges that appear more vibrant than in standard Colombian lines. Their smaller size and naturally bold patterning amplify the Hypo effect, giving them a crisp, striking look.

• Distribution: Native to Nicaragua, Central America.

• Habitat: Wild Nicaraguan boas are found in tropical forests, scrublands, and riverside habitats.

• Behaviour: Primarily nocturnal ambush predators, feeding on small mammals, birds, and reptiles. Juveniles are more arboreal, while adults remain mostly terrestrial.

Captive Care

• Enclosure: Due to their smaller adult size, most thrive in 4′ × 2′ × 2′ enclosures, though larger setups are always beneficial. Provide secure hides, cork bark, climbing branches, and foliage. Bioactive setups with soil substrate, live plants, and leaf litter are excellent for maintaining humidity and enrichment.

• Temperature & Humidity: Maintain a gradient of 80–85°F (27–29°C), with a basking area of 88–92°F (31–33°C). Nighttime drops to 75–78°F (24–26°C) are acceptable. Humidity should remain 60–75%, slightly higher than Colombian boas, with a water bowl available for soaking.

• Diet: Juveniles feed every 7–10 days on small rodents; adults every 14–21 days. Feeding should be portioned carefully due to their smaller mature size.

• Behaviour in Captivity: These boas are hardy and generally adapt well to captivity. They often display strong feeding responses but typically tolerate handling once acclimated.

• Special Considerations: While selective breeding has produced a wide variety of morphs, their core care requirements remain identical to standard Boa constrictor imperator.

Genetics/Lineage Note

The Hypo Nicaraguan involves:

• Hypomelanistic (Hypo, co-dominant, expressed): Reduces black pigment, producing brighter, cleaner colouration.

• Nicaraguan Locality: Dwarf form averaging 4–6 feet, with a stocky build, darker tones, and bold contrast compared to Colombian BCIs.