B.C.I (Hypo Motley IMG 66% Het Snow)

B.C.I (Hypo Motley IMG 66% Het Snow)

Scientific Name: Boa constrictor imperator
Common Name: B.C.I, Hypo Motley IMG 66% Het Snow

Species Overview

Size: Adults typically reach 6–8 feet (1.8–2.4 m) in length, with females generally larger and heavier-bodied than males. Adult weight commonly ranges from 15–30 pounds, depending on sex, genetics, and husbandry.

Appearance: This Boa constrictor imperator combines hypomelanistic colour reduction with the elongated saddle patterning of the Motley trait. The IMG influence causes progressive darkening as the animal matures, creating striking contrast over time. The individual carries additional recessive genetics associated with Snow-type combinations, though these are not visually expressed and are present at a 66% probability.

Distribution: Native to Central America and northern regions of South America.

Habitat: Inhabits a wide range of environments including tropical forests, scrublands, forest edges, and areas near rivers or wetlands.

Behaviour: A nocturnal ambush predator that relies on camouflage and patience. Juveniles may use low branches or cover, while adults are primarily terrestrial and spend daylight hours concealed.

Captive Care

Enclosure: A spacious, naturalistic enclosure is strongly recommended. Adults should be housed in a minimum enclosure size of 6′ × 2′ × 2′ (183 × 61 × 61 cm). Provide multiple hides, sturdy branches, cork bark, and visual barriers. Soil-based or mulch substrates help maintain humidity and support natural behaviours.

Temperature and Humidity: Maintain ambient temperatures of 80–85°F (27–29°C), with a basking area of 88–92°F (31–33°C). Nighttime temperatures may drop to 75–78°F (24–26°C). Humidity should remain between 55–70%, with access to a large water dish and occasional misting as needed.

Lighting: Standard ambient lighting on a consistent day–night cycle is sufficient. Low-output UVB is optional and may benefit overall activity and plant growth in bioactive setups.

Diet: Juveniles should be fed appropriately sized rodents every 7–10 days. Adults typically feed every 14–21 days, adjusted based on prey size and body condition.

Behaviour in Captivity: Generally hardy and adaptable. Many individuals remain manageable with regular, calm handling, though feeding responses can be strong.

Special Considerations: Due to their potential adult size and increasing strength, long-term enclosure planning is important. Larger individuals may benefit from assisted handling, and having a second set of hands is recommended for safety and control.

Taxonomy Note

Boa constrictor imperator is a member of the family Boidae, a group of non-venomous constricting snakes native to the Americas. Formerly classified as a subspecies of Boa constrictor, B. imperator is now widely recognised as a distinct species based on genetic, morphological, and geographic evidence, with a natural range spanning much of Central America and extending into parts of northern South America. In captivity, this species is valued for its adaptability, generally steady temperament, and extensive diversity of selectively bred colour and pattern traits, all of which retain consistent core behaviours and care requirements across standard B.C.I forms.

Genetics Note

Hypomelanistic (Recessive): The Hypo gene reduces black pigmentation, producing cleaner, lighter colours and higher contrast between pattern and background when expressed in two copies. Single-copy carriers are visually normal but can pass the gene to offspring.

Motley (Co-Dominant): The Motley gene reduces pattern along the dorsal line, creating a cleaner, more linear pattern with high contrast. One copy produces moderate pattern reduction, while two copies amplify the effect.

IMG (Dominant): The IMG gene modifies pattern, producing irregular, reduced dorsal saddles and lighter background colours. A single copy is enough to produce visible effects, while two copies intensify the pattern reduction.

Het Albino (Recessive Carrier): This snake carries one copy of the Albino gene, which removes black pigmentation and produces red, orange, and yellow tones when expressed in two copies. Single-copy carriers are visually normal but can pass the gene to offspring.

Het Anerythristic (Recessive Carrier): This snake carries one copy of the Anery gene, which removes red pigmentation and produces greys, blacks, and whites when expressed in two copies. Single-copy carriers are visually normal but can pass the gene to offspring.