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Description
B.C.I (Motley T+ Snow - Chocolate T+/Black Eyed Anery Nicaraguan)
Scientific Name: Boa constrictor imperator
Common Name: B.C.I, Motley T+ Snow Nicaraguan
Species Overview
Size: Adults typically reach 4–6 feet (1.2–1.8 m) in length, with females generally larger and more robust than males. Adult weight commonly ranges from 10–20 pounds, depending on sex, lineage, and husbandry.
Appearance: This Boa constrictor imperator displays the flowing, reduced pattern of the Motley trait. T+ Snow influence lightens the overall background colour, while Chocolate T+ and Black Eyed Anery traits contribute warm tones, subtle greys, and muted contrast. Nicaraguan lineage often results in a more compact, muscular build with refined proportions. The combination produces a visually striking and complex appearance.
Distribution: Native to Central America, with Nicaraguan lineage contributing to compact build and refined patterning.
Habitat: Wild B.C.I inhabit tropical dry forests, forest edges, scrublands, and areas near water sources. Nicaraguan populations are often associated with slightly drier, more open habitats.
Behaviour: Primarily nocturnal ambush predators relying on camouflage and stillness. Juveniles may exhibit semi-arboreal tendencies, while adults become mostly terrestrial.
Captive Care
Enclosure: A naturalistic enclosure is recommended. Adults are suitable for 4′ × 2′ × 2′ (122 × 61 × 61 cm) setups. Include multiple hides, cork bark, sturdy branches, and visual barriers. Soil or mulch substrates help maintain humidity and encourage 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 can 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 consistent day–night cycle is sufficient. Low-output UVB is optional and may benefit planted or bioactive setups.
Diet: Juveniles should be fed appropriately sized rodents every 7–10 days. Adults typically feed every 14–21 days, adjusted for body condition.
Behaviour in Captivity: Generally hardy and adaptable. Most individuals acclimate well to captivity and tolerate handling, though feeding responses may be strong.
Special Considerations: Even though Nicaraguan B.C.I tend to be slightly smaller, they remain strong, muscular snakes. Long-term housing planning and assisted handling for larger adults 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
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.
T+ Albino (Recessive): The T+ Albino gene removes most black pigmentation while retaining partial melanin, producing cream, caramel, honey, or light brown tones when expressed in two copies. Single-copy carriers are visually normal but can pass the gene to offspring.
Chocolate T+ (Recessive): The Chocolate gene modifies the base colour to a warmer brown. When combined with T+ Albino, it produces cream, caramel, and honey tones. Single-copy carriers are visually normal but can pass the gene to offspring.
Het Black Eyed Anerythristic (Recessive Carrier): This snake carries one copy of the Black Eyed Anery gene, which removes red pigmentation and reduces melanin in the eyes when expressed in two copies. Single-copy carriers are visually normal but can pass the gene to offspring.
Nicaraguan (Locality): Nicaraguan B.C.I represents a geographically distinct population. It can influence size, pattern, and temperament but does not affect the expression of other genes directly.
Snow (Combination Morph, Visual): The Snow morph refers to snakes visually expressing both Albino and Anery together. This combination produces a light, high-contrast appearance with cream and honey tones and subtle pattern contrast, while retaining the potential to produce Albino or Anery offspring when bred.