Picture a boa with deep, rich red hues that seem almost unreal—that’s the Berry Blood Boa!
This rare morph is truly a sight to behold, known for its vibrant coloration that turns heads.
But what gives it this striking appearance, and what does it take to raise such a magnificent snake?
Get ready to explore the fascinating world of the Berry Blood Boa Constrictor!
Berry Blood Boa Generic & History
The Berry Blood Boa is a stunning snake with deep red and rich berry-colored patterns that set it apart from other boa morphs.
This boa’s origins are tied to selective breeding, where breeders worked to enhance its deep crimson hues.
The Berry Blood Boa’s striking appearance, combined with its docile nature, has made it highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Despite its bold colors, it’s known for being a gentle, manageable snake.
Berry Blood Boa Traits
Appearance:
- Body Color:
Striking deep red tones that give it a unique “blood” appearance, intensifying as it ages. - Shape:
Thick and robust, with a powerful constrictor body, yet still elegant in movement. - Eyes:
Darker eyes that enhance the striking red coloration of the body. - Belly:
A lighter, reddish-tinted underside that complements the deep red top. - Head & Tail:
A wide, triangular head with a short, muscular tail.
Size & Weight:
- Typically reaches 6 to 8 feet in length, with a weight of around 15 to 20 pounds.
Behavior & Temperament:
- Fairly calm and easy to handle, although it may be more active than other boa morphs.
Lifespan:
- 20 to 30 years with proper care.
Berry Blood Boa’s Cost:
- Hatchlings: Between $500 to $1,000.
- Adults: Can cost anywhere from $1,200 to $2,000.
- Julien/High-Quality Breeding Variants: Prices may go up to $2,500.
- Where to Buy: MorphMarket and high-end boa breeders are the best places to purchase.
Berry Blood Boa Breeding & Reproduction
1. Breeding Season
- Berry Blood Boas generally breed during early spring.
- Similar to other boas, breeders mimic natural cooling to encourage mating behavior in captivity.
2. Mating Process
- Males use their spurs to stimulate the female, and you’ll often notice them wrapping their tails together during mating.
- This can last several hours or even days as the male attempts to fertilize the female.
3. Ovulation and Gestation
- After ovulation, the female’s belly will noticeably swell. Gestation takes about 5 to 6 months.
- Like all boas, Berry Blood Boas are ovoviviparous, giving birth to live babies.
4. Birth and Litter Size
- A healthy female can give birth to 15 to 40 live babies. The number varies based on her size and overall condition.
- The newborns emerge with the vivid red coloration that defines the Berry Blood Boa morph.
5. Post-Birth Care
- Newborn Berry Blood Boas are kept individually to monitor feeding and growth.
- They can start feeding on small prey like pinky mice after their first shed, about 7 to 10 days post-birth.
Berry Blood Boa Care Sheet
Enclosure & Habitat
- Tank Size: Adult Berry Blood Boas require at least a 4x2x2 foot enclosure. A smaller 20-30 gallon tank will work for hatchlings, but upgrading is necessary as they grow.
- Substrate: Use reptile-safe substrates like aspen, cypress mulch, or reptile bark. These help maintain humidity and are soft on the snake’s body. Avoid sand, which can cause irritation.
- Temperature: Keep a basking area at 88-90°F, with the cooler side of the enclosure around 75°F. Use a thermostat to regulate heat for consistency.
- Humidity: Maintain humidity between 60-70%, which is essential for hydration and healthy shedding. Mist the enclosure or use a water dish for extra humidity.
- Lighting: Natural light works well, but UVB lighting is optional. If used, opt for low-intensity UVB bulbs.
- Hides & Decor: Add a few hiding spots, such as logs or reptile caves, to give your boa a sense of security. Some branches for climbing can also be enriching.
Diet & Feeding
- Prey Size: Feed your Berry Blood Boa frozen/thawed mice or rats that are appropriately sized. Hatchlings need small mice, while adults can eat medium to large rats.
- Feeding Schedule: Hatchlings should eat every 5-7 days, while adults can be fed weekly.
- Water: Provide a bowl of clean, fresh water at all times. The bowl should be large enough for the boa to soak if it chooses.
Handling
- Handling Frequency: Handle your Berry Blood Boa 2-3 times a week, but be sure not to handle it right after feeding to avoid stress or regurgitation.
- Proper Techniques: Support the snake’s body while holding it, and avoid sudden movements. Berry Blood Boas are generally calm and tolerate handling well.
Shedding
- Signs of Shedding: The snake’s skin will appear dull, and its eyes will turn cloudy blue, signaling an upcoming shed.
- Shedding Assistance: To help with shedding, raise the humidity slightly and ensure there are rough surfaces like rocks or branches in the enclosure.
Health & Common Issues
- Signs of Illness: Look out for respiratory infections, mouth rot, or mites. Signs include wheezing, swollen gums, or visible parasites.
- Preventative Care: Keep the enclosure clean and ensure proper humidity and temperature to avoid health issues.
Cleaning & Maintenance
- Cleaning Frequency: Spot clean regularly, and do a full clean once a month.
- Safe Cleaning Products: Use reptile-safe cleaners to disinfect the enclosure and any accessories.
Conclusion
The Berry Blood Boa stands out with its striking red hues and unique appearance, making it a favorite among snake enthusiasts.
With the right breeding practices and care, this magnificent morph can thrive, offering both beauty and companionship for decades.
