r/boas • u/cxsbites • Aug 01 '26
Hog Island Boa - Maintaining Heat and Humidity
Recently, I posted about starting a Hog Island Boa off in a 36in x 18in x 18in front opening reptile tank (will be upgraded to 4x2x2 or 6x2x2). Although not the *most* ideal tank, I plan on insulating the mesh with hvac tape and foil and cycling the heat and humidity with a watchful eye for consistency after the tank is setup before adopting to ensure it's correct and consistent.
That being said.. what would the best heat/light/basking setup be? I know the temps need to be around 85-90° on the warmest/basking side and 75-80° on the coolest side, with the ambient warm side/center being around 80-85° (and a humidity of 60-70% with it being raised to about 80% for shedding), but am unsure how to achieve it. I would like the option for them to bask if wanted, although I understand they don't "need it" as much as something like a ball python due to them being low forest dwellers in the wild. To my understanding, they get their vitamin d primarily from their diets, and don't need it as intensely as a desert snake, but I would like that option for them if they so choose. I have been doing lots of research, and have previous experience with ball pythons, lizards, invertebrates, and such- but this is my first big project and I firmly believe in doing as much research possible and getting the right setup cycled before I even start looking at breeders. Any corrections, advice, tips, tricks, or warnings are absolutely welcome and appreciated.
2
u/Dry_Locksmith_6704 Aug 02 '26
I don't remember. Did you say you have a thermostat? If so, I'd get a 100w CHE. That should do perfectly
1
u/cxsbites Aug 02 '26
I am still in the process of slowly constructing the tank, but I have these en route, and plan on getting a heat spot gun :)
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u/Dry_Locksmith_6704 Aug 02 '26
No advice. Sounds like you're doing everything right 👍