Suriname Red Tail boa | Boa constrictor constrictor
Plan the habitat for the adult animal, with secure housing and room to carry out its natural behaviour.
At a Glance
| Origin & natural habitat |
Northern South America; tropical woodland and forest. |
| Adult size |
Around 200–300 cm or more; females are often larger. |
| Lifespan |
20–30 years or more. |
| Temperament |
Individuals vary; allow time to settle before any handling. |
| Activity |
Mostly dusk and night-active. |
| Social needs |
House individually. |
Housing & Setup
Enclosure dimensions are length × depth × height unless stated otherwise. Plan for the adult animal; larger, suitably furnished housing is encouraged.
| Adult housing |
Purpose-built adult enclosure, at least as long as the snake; plan around 300 × 120 × 120 cm for a large adult. |
| Temperature |
Warm area around 30–32°C; cool end around 25–27°C. |
| Lighting & UVB |
Provide a regular day/night cycle with darkness at night. Select species-appropriate UVB, with shaded retreats and safe lamp distances. |
| Humidity / moisture |
Around 60–80%, with good ventilation and dry resting surfaces. |
| Substrate |
Species-appropriate, pesticide-free substrate; avoid aromatic woods. |
| Furnishings & filtration |
Secure hides and furnishings; drinking water must remain accessible. |
Behaviour & Compatibility
House individually. A large, powerful constrictor requiring experienced handling and another competent adult when needed.
Feeding & Nutrition
Offer appropriately sized, fully thawed whole rodents. Confirm the current prey size and feeding schedule at collection; juveniles generally feed more frequently than adults. Adjust portions to body condition and do not use plain muscle meat as a staple. Routine calcium dusting is not needed for balanced whole prey. Provide fresh water daily.
Routine Care
Check temperatures, humidity, appetite and behaviour daily. Replace drinking water and remove waste promptly. Clean bowls and contaminated furnishings regularly; monitor weight and shedding. Arrange advice from an exotics vet for persistent changes in appetite, breathing or movement.
Important Before Buying
Plan the final enclosure, safe handling and long-term costs before buying. Confirm expected adult size for the supplied animal.
Live Animals Are Click & Collect Only
We do not ship live animals. Order online and wait for confirmation that your animal is ready before collecting from Newlands Home and Garden Centre, Clondalkin, Dublin 22. Have the enclosure prepared and its conditions checked before collection.