{"product_id":"b-c-i-vpi-aztek-pink-panther","title":"B.C.I (VPI Aztec Pink Panther)","description":"\u003ch2\u003eB.C.I (VPI Aztec Pink Panther)\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eScientific Name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Boa constrictor imperator\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon Name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Boa constrictor, Columbian boa\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSpecies Overview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e Adults typically reach 6–8 feet (1.8–2.4 m) in length, with females generally larger and more robust than males. Adult weight commonly ranges from 15–30 pounds, depending on sex, genetics, and husbandry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAppearance:\u003c\/strong\u003e This Boa constrictor imperator displays the distinct, triangular side patches and smudgy dorsal stripe of the \u003cstrong\u003eAztec\u003c\/strong\u003e morph with the deeper, almost brick-pink colouration of the \u003cstrong\u003ePink Panther VPI\u003c\/strong\u003e line. This creates an animal with dramatic, sharp markings and stunning reddish colouration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDistribution:\u003c\/strong\u003e Native to Central America and northern regions of South America.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat:\u003c\/strong\u003e Inhabits tropical forests, forest edges, scrublands, agricultural margins, and areas near rivers or wetlands.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBehaviour:\u003c\/strong\u003e Primarily nocturnal ambush predators that rely on stillness and camouflage. Juveniles may climb or use low vegetation for cover, while adults are mostly terrestrial and spend daylight hours concealed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCaptive Care\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEnclosure:\u003c\/strong\u003e A naturalistic enclosure is strongly recommended. Adults should be housed in a minimum size of 6′ × 2′ × 2′ (183 × 61 × 61 cm). Provide multiple hides, cork bark, sturdy branches, and visual barriers. Soil-based or mulch substrates support humidity retention and natural behaviours.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature and Humidity:\u003c\/strong\u003e 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLighting:\u003c\/strong\u003e Standard ambient lighting on a consistent day–night cycle is sufficient. Low-output UVB is optional and may benefit planted or bioactive enclosures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDiet:\u003c\/strong\u003e Juveniles should be fed appropriately sized rodents every 7–10 days. Adults typically feed every 14–21 days, adjusted for body condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBehaviour in Captivity:\u003c\/strong\u003e Generally hardy and adaptable. Most individuals acclimate well to captivity and tolerate handling, though feeding responses can be strong.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpecial Considerations:\u003c\/strong\u003e Due to 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eTaxonomy Note\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoa 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 \u003cem\u003eBoa constrictor\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eB. imperator\u003c\/em\u003e 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGenetics Note\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVPI (Recessive, Visual):\u003c\/strong\u003e The VPI gene is a particular line of T+ albinism that produces a more colourful albino animal with more pinks and purples. Two copies of the gene are necessary to produce a visually-expressing animal. The \u003cstrong\u003ePink Panther\u003c\/strong\u003e trait is a variant of VPI where there is significantly more orange and red hues, leading to a pink appearance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAztec (Incomplete Dominant, Visual): \u003c\/strong\u003eThe Aztec gene alters the pattern of the animal, most notably a side pattern that evokes the imagery of Aztec pyramids, a dorsal stripe that almost appears smeared as it nears the tail, interconnected, aberrant dorsal saddles, and higher contrast. Individuals will often gain redder colouration as they age.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tails and Scales","offers":[{"title":"Male","offer_id":49822450843863,"sku":"CITES","price":1000.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Female","offer_id":49822450876631,"sku":"CITES","price":1000.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0016\/8611\/0252\/files\/IMG_5014.jpg?v=1790987840","url":"https:\/\/tailsandscales.ca\/products\/b-c-i-vpi-aztek-pink-panther","provider":"Tails and Scales ","version":"1.0","type":"link"}