If you quite fancy being a pet owner, then you may have given some consideration as to adopting a boa constrictor as a pet. However, it is imperative that you come to appreciate that caring for a boa takes commitment and they require a considerable amount of time and patience devoted to them in order to them keep happy and safe. In particular, a prospective boa pet owner should consider the following two factors:

Size: The most common variety of boa constrictor, the boa constrictor imperator can grow as long as eight feet in length and if that fails to impress, perhaps the fact that the red tailed boa constrictor can grow even larger than ten feet or more will make you realise just how large and powerful these animals are. A fully matured snake that has managed to achieve this size will require a considerable amount of space, not to mention a regular supply of large prey such as rats or even rabbits.

Lifespan: A boa constrictor can survive in captivity for twenty or more years and this can raise a number of considerable logistical difficulties for the pet owner, especially when their circumstances change for whatever reason. If you go on holiday, then you will need to ensure that you have someone to babysit your snake. However, finding someone to look after a large boa is often much harder than getting a friend to feed a cat!

Now that we have considered some of the practical issues, let us now raise another, equally important question: is a boa constrictor really worth all the hard work?

Snakes are derided as being evil within the Bible, and Aesop's Fables often depict them as sly, nasty creatures. In truth, they are beautiful creatures that can bring a considerable amount of happiness to their owner. Indeed, boas are by their very nature docile creatures which despite their rather intimidating appearance and size are often gentle natured. Most boas can be tolerant to handling and tend to make excellent pets. Treat the boa constrictor with respect, and you will have a remarkable friend for life.

Whilst there can be no denying that snakes require a very precise regime of temperature, humidity and diet, they are actually very low maintenance. Cats and dogs maybe the more popular forms of pets but if truth be told, the reality of the matter is that they can be a major burden on their owner. This is because the owner has to contend with their constant demands for exercise, food, attention and the cat/dog will not stop whining until they get what they want. The snake on the other hand, will require only a few minutes each day and otherwise can be left alone.

Boas are great animals to have because they provide enough of a challenge to be pleasurable, whilst at the same time not posing too much of a difficulty so as to frustrate their owner. The boa constrictor is not a pet that will be well liked or tolerated by everyone and therefore it is imperative that you carefully consider your final decision. Given the extremely long lifespan that they invariably enjoy, it is crucial that you are fully committed and able to actually care for them in the long term because otherwise, you will find yourself struggling very badly to deal with them. So take your time, read up on the subject, and speak with other snake owners before making a decision to become a snake owner yourself!

Click for a boa constrictor care sheet or a guide to the boa constrictor imperator.