Red Tail Boa (B.c.c) (Guyana)

Red Tail Boa (B.c.c) (Guyana)

Scientific Name: Boa constrictor constrictor
Common Name: Red Tail Boa, Guyana

Species Overview

Size: Adults typically reach 6–10 feet (1.8–3.0 m) in length, with females generally larger than males. Adult weight ranges from 20–35 pounds, reflecting the robust, muscular build of mainland South American Red Tail Boas.

Appearance: Classic red tail coloration is prominent, with deep red or rust-coloured saddles along the tail and darker brown or black body patterning. Body is thick and muscular, giving the Guyanese Red Tail Boa a powerful appearance.

Distribution: Native to Guyana and surrounding regions of northern South America.

Habitat: Inhabits tropical rainforests, forest edges, savannahs, and areas near rivers. Adapted to high humidity and a consistently warm environment.

Behaviour: Primarily nocturnal ambush predators. Juveniles may climb low vegetation, while adults are mostly terrestrial. Typically calm and slow-moving but strong and capable of constriction.

Captive Care

Enclosure: A naturalistic setup is recommended. Adults require a minimum enclosure of 6′ × 2′ × 2′ (183 × 61 × 61 cm). Include multiple hides, sturdy branches, water dish, and visual barriers. Soil, mulch, or bioactive substrates support humidity and natural behaviours.

Temperature and Humidity: Maintain ambient temperatures of 80–85°F (27–29°C), with a basking spot of 88–92°F (31–33°C). Nighttime temperatures can drop to 75–78°F (24–26°C). Humidity should remain between 60–80%, supported by a water dish for soaking and occasional misting.

Lighting: Standard ambient lighting on a consistent day–night cycle is sufficient. Low-output UVB is optional for planted or bioactive setups.

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

Behaviour in Captivity: Generally hardy and adaptable, with a calm temperament. Strong and muscular adults may require assisted handling for safety.

Special Considerations: Large size and muscular strength require careful long-term housing planning. Assisted handling is strongly recommended for adult snakes.

Taxonomy Note

Boa constrictor constrictor, the Red Tail Boa, is the nominate subspecies of Boa constrictor, native to northern South America, including Guyana. It is characterised by a robust, muscular body and the signature red tail coloration, with darker body patterning. These boas inhabit tropical rainforests, savannahs, and riverine environments, thriving in high humidity and consistently warm conditions. In captivity, Guyanese Red Tail Boas retain the calm temperament and ambush predation behaviour typical of Boa constrictor, making them manageable with consistent care.

Genetics Note

Guyana Red Tail Boa (Locality / Wild Type): This snake represents a geographically distinct population of Boa constrictor constrictor from Guyana. It does not carry any known morph or pattern-altering genes. Its coloration and pattern reflect the natural wild type for this locality, with strong red/orange tail colouring, standard black and brown dorsal saddles, and normal melanin distribution.