Boa Constrictor Imperator (BCI)

Boa constrictor imperator
Morph: Hypo Motley Het Albino

Species Overview

• Size: BCI typically reach 6–8 feet (1.8–2.4 m) in length, with females usually larger than males. Adults often weigh 15–30 pounds depending on genetics and husbandry.

• Appearance: This boa expresses the Hypomelanistic (Hypo) and Motley traits. Hypo reduces black pigmentation, producing brighter tones and enhanced contrast. Motley is a co-dominant pattern mutation that alters saddles into connected or ladder-like forms, sometimes producing dorsal striping. This boa is also Het Albino, meaning it carries but does not visually display the recessive Albino gene.

• Distribution: The natural Boa constrictor imperator is native to Central and South America, ranging from Mexico through Colombia.

• Habitat: Wild BCIs inhabit tropical forests, scrublands, savannahs, and river systems.

• Behaviour: Primarily nocturnal ambush predators feeding on small mammals, birds, and reptiles. Adults are mostly terrestrial but may climb occasionally.

Captive Care

• Enclosure: A naturalistic enclosure is recommended. Adults should be housed in at least a 6′ × 2′ × 2′ setup with climbing branches, cork bark, secure hides, and foliage. Bioactive setups with soil-based substrate, leaf litter, and live plants help maintain humidity and provide 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 55–70%, with access to a large water dish for soaking.

• Diet: Juveniles should be fed every 7–10 days on small rodents, while adults feed every 14–21 days.

• Behaviour in Captivity: Hypo Motley boas are hardy and adaptable, with strong feeding responses. They usually settle well with consistent care and tolerate handling.

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

Genetics Note

The Hypo Motley Het Albino involves:

• Hypomelanistic (co-dominant): Reduces black pigmentation, producing brighter colours and sharper contrast.

• Motley (co-dominant): Produces connected saddles, dorsal striping, or reduced patterning.

  • ⚠️ Note: The homozygous form (“Super Motley”) is generally considered fatal in boas and does not produce viable offspring.

• Het Albino (recessive carrier): Carries but does not visually display the Albino trait.