How Much Does It Cost To Own A Boa Constrictor

Have you always wanted to own a pet boa constrictor?

Are you thinking about finally purchasing a boa constrictor?

If owning a boa constrictor is something you have always wanted, one of the first things you might ask is:

How much does it cost to own a boa constrictor?

The cost of a boa constrictor will depend on the morph and the age of the snake. Some varieties of juvenile boa constrictors start as low as $50, and more rare or larger boas may cost several hundred dollars or even thousands.

Understanding the cost of the animal and all the other costs you will have associated with owning the snake should be taken into consideration before you make the jump into owning a boa.

Keep reading for more information on the cost of owning a boa constrictor.

How Much Does It Cost To Own A Boa Constrictor?

Owning a pet snake is getting more and more popular, and the interesting characteristics of these animals add to the popularity.

But before becoming a snake owner, it is vital to understand how much the animal costs and how much the care over time will cost.

The price of a boa constrictor will depend on the age of the animal, with juveniles having a smaller price tag than adult boas.

Aside from the age, the subspecies and the morph of the animal will also factor in purchasing the snake.

Some of the more common types of juvenile boa constrictors, like the Columbian boa, often sell for as low as $50.

Columbian red tail boas often retail between $150 and $200, and a rosy boa may start as low as $25, but prices go up from there depending on where you purchase the snake.

If a morph, or genetic variation of color or pattern, really matters to you, you will likely have to pay for it.

Rare or high demand snakes will drive the price up for anyone looking to become an owner.

Before you purchase your snake, it is a good idea to explore different morphs, and subspecies to determine what might work best for you and your home.

Once you have done some research, you will be able to identify a general price range for what you want and determine the value of the animal.

Beyond paying for the animal, you will also have costs for the setup of housing the creature, feeding it, and health care.

The life expectancy for a boa constrictor is about 20 to 30 years, so this is a long term commitment.

You will need to purchase an enclosure for the animal, place suitable bedding inside, and even buy a heat lamp, mat, or rock to provide warmth.

The cost of the tank will be determined by the size and style you buy, and remember, you will also have to have comfortable, safe bedding for your snake as long as they are alive.

Food for your boa will be minimal, but it will still be a long-term cost you will have to consider before purchasing your new pet.

Be prepared to spend at least $100 on an enclosure’s initial set up and what you need.

This number is on the low end, and initial costs could go up to around $400 or more depending on how fancy an enclosure you want to get.

Once you have the initial set up covered, plan to spend between $20 and $30 per month to maintain the enclosure and feed your boa.

Who Do I Buy A Boa Constrictor From?

Once you have decided a boa constrictor is in your budget, you might feel a bit lost when it comes to where to buy one.

Probably the best option would be to purchase your boa from a professional and reputable breeder.

Breeders will have been doing this for years and know what to do to produce healthy animals.

They will be able to provide you with a lot of information, and you will know for sure your new pet was captive-bred instead of wild-caught.

Captive-bred boas are more docile than wild-caught animals, and they are usually much healthier.

Besides a breeder, pet stores are another option, but you will be limited to what they have in stock, and you might not get a lot of background information on the animal.

The third option is to find your boa from the reptile community, rescue, or even from the classifieds.

There are disadvantages to this option.

You might save some money on the animal, but there could be health problems, or you could wind up with a less docile animal.

What To Look For When Purchasing A Boa Constrictor?

Whether you are buying your boa constrictor from a reputable breeder, a pet shop, or a classified ad online, there are a few things you should look for before you exchange any money.

You want to check to make sure the animal is healthy.

Do this by looking for bright and clear eyes, clear nostrils, and check to see if it breathes easily and quietly.

Take the time to handle the snake before buying it.

Check for a kinked spine or other deformity, scars, wounds, or lumps of any kind.

As you hold it, notice if the body feels smooth and muscular and see if it grips your arm or hand, wrapping the tail around your arm or hand when you handle the boa.

Besides the physical stuff, watch for how the animal acts.

Are they defensive or nervous?

Does it look alert, and flick its tongue when you handle it?

Once you have looked over the animal, try to get as much information as possible.

As the previous owner or breeder about their birth date, feeding habits, temperament, and past health or shed issues.

You’ll never have too much information about your snake.

Conclusion

Buying a new boa constrictor seems overwhelming at first, but with a little research, you will have a leg up.

The research will help you identify if the animal is in good health and let you know if you are paying too much.

Determine what is important to you and know if you are going for a more specialized boa, the price will be higher.