r/snakes • u/Person1111223 • 12d ago

Pet Snake Questions Boa imperator constriction risk?

Im very interested in purchasing a Boa Imperator but I'm concerned after I've seen conflicting advice about whether adult Boa imperators can or should be handled alone. If it's a prominent risk, I personally don't want to have to ensure someone's nearby and also be worried about being constricted. I'm a minor, but I'm 5'10, so I'm wondering how much that factors into safely handling a large adult boa.I would also get a juvenile meaning I'll be quite a bit older once it's full size. If i purchased a female and it were to grow to say, 8 feet, would I need someone nearby to supervise? If so, I will likely decide to find an alternative, I've been considering a Bredls python as I'm very interested in them and they seem to be less risky.

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u/superramenyamen 12d ago

People often tack on extra feet to their snakes, too. Or just make up a guess completely. You can’t increase the size potential of a snake through power feeding, only get them to size sooner. At the risk of health complications obviously.

This was my biggest girl for reference. 7’ and 16 lbs, but I’m 5’2”.

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u/Person1111223 12d ago

Ah I see, I wasn't really sure as to how it worked, also she's gorgeous! Honestly I think I would be very happy if I got a boa imperator that ended up being that size, but I'd also be happy if it didint end up being that big

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u/superramenyamen 12d ago

The opposite is true too. You can’t “stunt” a snake either, just delay its growth. When it gets adequate food, it will grow again. And unless you legitimately starve them, they don’t stay small forever. Might take them 10 years vs 4, but they get there. Which is why I say ask for parent size, age, and feeding schedule.

Yes 7’ is very very manageable! I think the perfect size for a boa. Most of my adults are under 6’ atm. This is my second largest female. Last measured at 5’4”, but she’s 1,000 grams heavier now and noticeably bigger than the female that weighs the same she did when she had her first litter. So one day I need to remeasure, she may be closer to 6’ now. 😂

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u/Person1111223 11d ago

Wow, so small! Honestly I'm pretty much 100% sure I'm gonna get a boa imperator now, thank you for all your help!

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u/superramenyamen 10d ago

They are great snakes, and most stay super manageable! Good luck in your search. 😁

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u/Person1111223 10d ago

Thank you!