Have you ever wondered what makes the Hypo Boa so strikingly beautiful? With its vibrant colours and reduced dark pigments, this boa morph is a real showstopper.
Could this colourful beauty be the perfect addition to your reptile collection? Let’s discover with us!
Hypo Boa History & Genetics
The Hypo Boa has an interesting history that began in the 1990s when breeders first discovered boas with a naturally reduced melanin trait, making them brighter and more colourful than their wild counterparts.
This “hypomelanistic” gene, which gives the Hypo Boa constrictor its vivid colours and reduced black pigmentation, quickly became a favourite among enthusiasts.
Unlike normal boas, Hypo Boas have a genetic mutation that lessens the production of melanin, resulting in a vibrant mix of reds, oranges, and pinks.
When bred with other Boa morphs, their genetics contribute to some of the most beautiful and diverse boa morph combinations, enhancing their popularity among collectors.
Hypo Boa Traits
Appearance
- Body Color: Hypo Boas have reduced melanin, which gives them a brighter appearance. Their bodies are a mix of vibrant reds, oranges, and pinks, often with less black in the patterns.
- Shape & Eyes: They have a typical boa body—muscular and thick. Their eyes can range from red to coppery, giving them a fiery look.
- Belly: While their belly tends to be pale with faint patterning.
- Head Shape and Tail: The head is broad, with a defined jawline. The tail usually displays vivid reds and oranges, making it one of the most colourful parts of its body.
- Speed: They are not very fast; their movements are slow and calculated, typical of constrictors.
Hypo Boa Size & Weight
Behaviour and Temperament
- Temperament: These Boas are known for their generally calm and docile nature. They adapt well to handling if socialized from a young age and can make great pets for those familiar with boas.
- Behaviour: They are curious but laid-back, often exploring their enclosure slowly. They enjoy hiding and climbing branches.
Lifespan
With proper care, they can live for 20 to 30 years, making them a long-term commitment.
Hypo Boa Cost
Hypo Boa Breeding & Reproduction
Pair Selection: Choose a healthy male and female Hypo Boa, ideally over 2-3 years old and weighing more than 10 pounds. Both should exhibit the hypomelanistic trait.
Cooling Period: Gradually lower the enclosure temperature by 5-10°F for 6 to 8 weeks to simulate seasonal changes. This helps stimulate breeding behaviour.
Introducing the Pair: After the cooling period, return to normal temperatures and introduce the male and female in the same enclosure. Observe for courtship behaviours.
Mating: Once introduced, the male will engage in mating behaviour. This may take several attempts over a few days.
Gravid Stage: After successful mating, the female will become gravid (pregnant). This stage lasts about 30 to 60 days, during which she should be provided with optimal care.
Egg-Laying: Hypo Boas are ovoviviparous, meaning the female will give birth to live young rather than laying eggs. Expect around 15 to 30 hatchlings.
Hatchling Care: Once born, provide the hatchlings with a separate, suitable habitat, proper humidity, and food to ensure they thrive.
Some Famous Hypo Boa Morph Combinations
Hypo Boa Care Sheet
1. Enclosure Setup
- Size:
- Juveniles: A 20-gallon enclosure (around 30 x 12 x 12 inches) works for young boas.
- Adults: As adults can grow 6-8 feet long, a 4-6 foot enclosure (around 48 x 24 x 18 inches) is ideal.
- Type:
- Hypo Boas thrive in glass terrariums or wooden vivariums. Ensure the enclosure has a secure, lockable lid to prevent escapes.
- Temperature:
- Provide a temperature gradient of 80-85°F on the cool side and 90-95°F on the basking side. Use a heat lamp or under-tank heater for warmth.
- Humidity:
- Keep humidity around 60-70%. Use a hygrometer to monitor it, and maintain it by misting the enclosure or providing a water bowl large enough for soaking.
- Lighting:
- UV lighting is not mandatory for Hypo Boas, but providing a regular day-night cycle with natural light or LED lights helps regulate their behaviour.
- Substrate:
- Safe substrates include cypress mulch, aspen shavings, or newspaper. Avoid cedar or pine, as they can be harmful to snakes.
2. Diet & Feeding
- Food:
- Hypo Boas feed primarily on rodents, such as mice and rats, depending on their size. Large adults may occasionally eat birds.
- Feeding Schedule:
- Juveniles: Feed once every 7-10 days.
- Adults: Feed every 10-14 days.
- Supplements:
- No special supplements are typically required if the diet is balanced with whole prey items.
3. Water Needs
4. Handling & Behavior
- Hypo Boas are generally calm and tolerant of handling, especially when accustomed to it from a young age.
- Handle your boa 1-2 times a week for short periods to avoid stress. Always support their body properly, using both hands.
- Avoid handling after feeding or during shedding, as the snake may be more irritable.
5. Health & Common Issues
6. Cleaning & Maintenance
- Clean the enclosure at least once a week by spot-cleaning feces, shed skin, and leftover food.
- Do a full cleaning with substrate replacement every 4-6 weeks. Regular cleaning helps prevent bacterial growth and unpleasant odours.
- Disinfect the enclosure with reptile-safe cleaners to ensure proper hygiene.
Conclusion
The Hypo Boa is a captivating morph that stands out with its vibrant colors and reduced black pigmentation.
Whether as a pet or a breeding project, its beautiful morph combinations offer endless fascination.
If you’re looking for a boa that’s both visually stunning and easygoing, the Hypo Boa is a perfect choice!
