Boa Constrictor Imperator (BCI)

Boa constrictor imperator
Morph: IMG Albino Jungle Het Anery

Species Overview

• Size: Boa constrictor imperator typically grow 6–8 feet (1.8–2.4 m) in length, with females generally larger than males. Adults often weigh between 15–30 pounds depending on genetics and husbandry.

• Appearance: This boa expresses IMG (Increased Melanin Gene), Albino, and Jungle traits. IMG is a co-dominant mutation that progressively darkens the snake, producing deeper tones as it matures. Albino (recessive) removes melanin, resulting in whites, yellows, and oranges with pink/red eyes. The Jungle trait (co-dominant) produces increased pattern variability, sharper contrast, and lateral striping or broken saddles. Combined, these traits create an unusually high-contrast Albino boa with enhanced striping and dynamic colouration. This snake is also Het Anery, meaning it carries but does not visually display the recessive Anerythristic gene, which removes red pigment when expressed.

• Distribution: The natural Boa constrictor imperator ranges throughout Central and South America, from Mexico to Colombia.

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

• Behaviour: Nocturnal ambush predators feeding on small mammals, birds, and reptiles. Adults are primarily terrestrial, though juveniles may climb regularly.

Captive Care

• Enclosure: A naturalistic enclosure is recommended. Adults should be kept in at least a 6′ × 2′ × 2′ setup with climbing branches, cork bark, multiple hides, and plant cover. Bioactive setups with soil substrate, leaf litter, and live plants provide both enrichment and stable humidity.

• 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 fine. Humidity should remain 55–70%, with access to fresh water for soaking.

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

• Behaviour in Captivity: Generally hardy boas that adapt well in captivity. The combination of IMG and Jungle enhances visual appeal, while Albino expression makes them stand out. Feeding responses are typically strong, but most individuals tolerate handling with consistent care.

• 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 IMG Albino Jungle Het Anery involves:

• IMG (co-dominant): Increases melanin, darkening the snake with age.

• Albino (recessive, expressed): Removes melanin, producing whites, yellows, and oranges with pink/red eyes.

• Jungle (co-dominant): Increases pattern variability, producing striped or broken saddles with sharp contrast.

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