Boa Constrictor Imperator (BCI)

Boa constrictor imperator
Morph/Lineage: Blood (John Berry Line – El Salvador Locality)

Species Overview

• Size: BCI typically reach 6–8 feet (1.8–2.4 m) in length, though El Salvador locality boas are generally smaller, averaging 4–6 feet (1.2–1.8 m). Adults weigh less than larger Central or South American lineages, often staying more compact.

• Appearance: The Blood morph is a selectively bred line known for deep, rich red coloration that intensifies with age. This example belongs to the John Berry Line, one of the original and most established Blood projects in the hobby. Combined with its El Salvador locality origin, these boas often show more compact size, tighter saddles, and high colour saturation compared to other lines.

• Distribution: The natural Boa constrictor imperator is native to Central and South America. The El Salvador population is a recognized locality that tends toward smaller adult size.

• Habitat: In the wild, boas from El Salvador inhabit tropical forests, forest edges, and agricultural zones.

• Behaviour: Like all BCIs, they are primarily nocturnal ambush predators, preying on small mammals, birds, and reptiles. They are adaptable to a variety of environments but spend much of their adult lives terrestrially.

Captive Care

• Enclosure: A naturalistic enclosure is recommended. For El Salvador Bloods, a 4′ × 2′ × 2′ enclosure is generally sufficient for adults, with cork bark, climbing branches, hides, and live or artificial plants. Bioactive or semi-bioactive setups with soil-based substrate and leaf litter help maintain humidity and enrichment.

• Temperature & Humidity: Maintain a gradient of 80–85°F (27–29°C) with a basking spot of 88–92°F (31–33°C). Nighttime drops to 75–78°F (24–26°C) are acceptable. Humidity should remain between 55–70%, with access to a water dish for soaking.

• Diet: Juveniles feed every 7–10 days on appropriately sized rodents, while adults thrive on larger prey every 14–21 days. Because El Salvador boas are more compact, care should be taken not to overfeed.

• Behaviour in Captivity: Typically hardy boas, with Blood lines often displaying strong feeding responses. With consistent, calm husbandry, they tolerate handling well.

• Special Considerations: The Blood trait is a selectively bred line and does not alter husbandry needs. Their smaller adult size and rich coloration make them highly desirable for keepers seeking a manageable boa with striking appearance.

Genetics/Lineage Note

The Blood John Berry Line (El Salvador) involves:

• Blood (polygenic trait): A selectively bred line emphasizing deep red coloration. The intensity of red increases with age and selective breeding. Unlike simple recessive or co-dominant traits, Blood is largely line-bred (polygenic), meaning results vary and are refined over generations.

• John Berry Line: One of the original, most established Blood projects in the boa community, valued for consistency and depth of colour.

• El Salvador Locality: Smaller-bodied boas with more compact proportions compared to Colombian lines, typically reaching 4–6 feet as adults.