Basic Care of Kenyan Sand Boas (Eryx colubrinus)

About Sand Boas

Sand boas are native to Eastern Africa. They are relatively short, thick bodied snakes. Females may commonly reach 26-32” (rarely up to 40”). Males are much smaller, usually around 15”. Life span of sand boas is approximately 15 years.

The cage

A 10-15 gallon tank or the equivalent is ok size-wise for one sand boa. The 15 gallon size or even a 20 long would be good for a female as they do get considerably bigger than the males. It should have a screen top to prevent any escapes and/or visitors and to provide adequate ventilation.

Heat

Your sand boa will do well with temperatures in the low to mid 80s, but it will also need a temperature gradient with a warm side of about 90°F and a cool side in the upper 70s. This is best achieved using an undertank heater which provides belly heat. It is very important that this heat is regulated using a thermostat with a probe. Place the probe on the warm side of the tank. Then set your thermostat so that the temperature in the warm hide remains at 90°. This prevents thermal burns (reptiles will stay on a surface that is too hot and get burned) and overheating on hot days. Less expensive rheostats can be used, but be sure you are monitoring the floor temperature frequently with a temperature gun or digital thermometer. Never guess about the temperature in your pet’s enclosure.
  

Substrate

I have had success using aspen bedding with my sand boas. They like to burrow and adults should be provided with 3+ inches of substrate. The aspen holds its shape so the snakes can establish burrows. They will often sit with their heads just peaking out of a burrow entrance.

Feeding

Sand boas will eat mice; usually frozen/thawed mice are readily accepted. One appropriately sized mouse per week is fine. An appropriately sized prey item means that the mouse will make a slight lump in the snake rather than a huge bulge. Avoid handling your snake for a few days after feeding. Sometimes adults (especially males) will refuse food during the winter. Most sand boas will readily accept frozen/thawed mice. Feeding frozen/thawed is preferred over live due to the possibility that the mouse could bite your sand boa. Also be sure to provide a water bowl with fresh, clean water.

Shedding

Every so often your sand boa will shed its skin. Usually this occurs in one piece, but occasionally some pieces may be stuck on the snake. If this happens, put your sand boa in a container with warm very moist towels for a few hours. You should be able to help the snake remove the remaining pieces easily. It is especially important to be sure the shed is removed from the tip of the tail and nose.

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