Boa Constrictor Imperator (BCI)

Boa constrictor imperator
Morph: Sunglow

Species Overview

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

• Appearance: The Sunglow is a combination of the Hypomelanistic (Hypo) and Albino traits. Hypo (co-dominant) reduces black pigmentation, producing brighter, cleaner colours, while Albino (recessive, expressed) removes melanin entirely, creating vibrant whites, yellows, and oranges with pink/red eyes. Together, these traits result in a dramatically cleaner and brighter Albino boa, with enhanced saturation and reduced dark contrast.

• Distribution: The natural Boa constrictor imperator ranges from Mexico through Central America into Colombia.

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

• Behaviour: Nocturnal ambush predators feeding on small mammals, birds, and reptiles. Juveniles often climb, while adults are primarily terrestrial.

Captive Care

• Enclosure: A naturalistic enclosure is recommended. Adults should be housed in at least a 6′ × 2′ × 2′ setup with secure hides, climbing branches, cork bark, and plant cover. Bioactive setups with soil substrate, leaf litter, and live plants help stabilize 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 bowl for soaking.

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

• Behaviour in Captivity: Sunglow boas are hardy, adaptable snakes that typically adjust well to captivity. They may display strong feeding responses but usually tolerate handling once acclimated.

• 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 Sunglow involves:

• Hypomelanistic (Hypo, co-dominant, expressed): Reduces black pigment, resulting in brighter colours and cleaner patterning.

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

• Sunglow (combo morph): The result of combining Hypo + Albino, producing a cleaner, brighter Albino boa with intensified saturation.