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Description
B.C.I (Hypo Red Ladder Tail)
Scientific Name: Boa constrictor imperator
Common Name: B.C.I, Hypo Red Ladder Tail
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: Hypomelanistic Boa constrictors with the Red Ladder Tail trait show reduced dark pigmentation paired with intensified red colouration along the tail, forming a ladder-like pattern. The Hypo influence enhances brightness and contrast throughout the body, while the tail displays especially vivid reds that become more pronounced with age and proper husbandry.
Distribution: Native to Central America and northern South America.
Habitat: Occupies a broad range of environments including tropical forests, savannah edges, agricultural regions, and areas near rivers or wetlands.
Behaviour: A nocturnal ambush predator that relies on camouflage and patience. Juveniles may exhibit more climbing behaviour, while adults are primarily terrestrial and spend daylight hours concealed.
Captive Care
Enclosure: A 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%, supported by a large water dish and occasional misting.
Lighting: Standard ambient lighting on a day–night cycle is sufficient. Low-level UVB is optional and may be beneficial in planted or 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 reliable when properly maintained. Most individuals tolerate routine handling well, though feeding responses can be strong.
Special Considerations: Due to their potential adult size and strength, long-term housing plans should be considered early. 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.
Red Ladder Tail / Roswell Laddertail (Incomplete Dominant): The RLT gene modifies pattern, producing connected dorsal saddles and a ladder-like pattern on the tail. A single copy produces moderate pattern reduction, while homozygous snakes may show stronger effects but also carry a higher risk of mortality at birth. This is a visual pattern trait rather than a classic single-gene mutation.