Kenyan sand boa

Kenyan Sand boa

As their name suggests, the Kenyan Sand Boa originates from the sandy savannahs of Kenya. They are growing in popularity due to their manageable size, docile temperament and compared to other boas, their easy care requirements.

They are also a very attractive snake, with their striking pattern made up of browns and oranges aligning their skin. Kenyan sand boas have a stocky body and when fully grown they will rarely reach lengths of more than 2 foot. With the right care this species can live for up to 20 years!

Kenyan sand boas do not require a large enclosure. Their natural behaviour is to burrow underneath the sand so a sand substrate would be best, although aspen or beech chip may be used. Enclosure decoration can be minimal due to the sand boa spending the majority of the time hidden under its substrate

Breeding: These snakes unlike most other snakes give birth to live young instead of laying eggs, ranging from a clutch size of 6-18 on average.

Humidity: Humidity should be maintained under 50% to keep this species healthy as they do poorly in high humidity. No special techniques are needed to keep the humidity low, just proper ventilation and placement of the water bowl on the cool side of the enclosure.

Temperature: There should be a temperature gradient of 23-29C and the basking area should be around 32C

Lighting: Sand boas are nocturnal by nature and do not require intense lighting despite their desert habitats. However, it is recommended that a 5.0 UVB bulb be offered during the day light portion of the light cycle. All snakes can absorb the calcium from their whole prey for their own use but a UVB bulb still offers some health benefits as well as promotion of natural behaviours from the UV being emitted.

Feeding: Hatchlings should be fed every 5-7 days and adults fed every 7-10 days. Fresh water should be provided daily

Russell McRae