Have you ever seen a boa with mesmerizing patterns that almost look like they’re from a dream?
The Hypo Jungle Boa is known for its intricate designs and reduced black pigmentation, making it a true collector’s delight.
What makes this boa so special, and is it the right choice for your collection? Let’s discover it with us!
Hypo Jungle Boa History & Genetics
The Hypo Jungle Boa Constrictor is a fascinating result of selective breeding, combining two incredible traits: hypomelanism(reduced melanin) and the jungle pattern.
Originating in the early 1990s, breeders were captivated by the wild and unpredictable markings of the Jungle Boa, which, when mixed with the Hypo gene, created a snake with reduced black pigmentation and a vibrant appearance.
This morph became popular due to its vivid colours and stunning, almost chaotic patterns, making each boa truly one of a kind.
Hypo Jungle Boa Traits
Appearance
- Body Color: The Hypo Jungle Boa snake is famous for its vibrant body colours, often appearing in shades of golden-brown, orange, or reddish hues. The reduced black pigmentation gives it a much lighter look than a typical boa.
- Shape, Eyes & Belly: Its body is muscular and streamlined, with distinct saddle-like markings that are wavy and irregular. The eyes are a light amber, adding to its unique look, and the belly is usually a creamy white with minimal markings.
- Head Shape and Tail: The head is slightly elongated with a well-defined ridge. The tail is long and patterned, ending in a splash of brighter colour, which is one of the boa’s striking features.
- Speed: They move relatively slowly compared to many snakes, but they can show bursts of speed, especially when it feel threatened or during hunting.
Size & Weight
- Size: Adult Hypo Jungle Boas typically grow to about 5-7 feet in length.
- Weight: Their weight can range from 10-15 pounds, depending on diet and overall health.
Behaviour and Temperament
This boa is known for being fairly docile and adaptable, which makes it popular among beginners and experienced keepers alike.
It tends to stay calm during handling sessions but still requires careful, gentle handling.
It’s mostly active at night, preferring to hide during the day. These Boas enjoy climbing when given branches or other climbing materials in their enclosures.
Hypo Jungle Boa Lifespan
They can live for 20-30 years with proper care.
Hypo Jungle Boa Cost
Hypo Jungle Boas Breeding & Reproduction
- Selecting Breeding Pairs
Choose a healthy male and female Hypo Jungle Boa with strong genetic backgrounds. It’s important to select snakes that have desirable traits, such as vibrant colours and distinct patterns.
- Breeding Age and Readiness
Female Boa should be at least 3-4 years old and weigh around 10-15 pounds to ensure they are mature enough for breeding.
Males can start breeding around 2-3 years of age.
- Temperature Cycling (Brumation)
To stimulate breeding, gradually reduce the temperature in their enclosure by about 5-10°F at night over several weeks.
This cooling mimics winter conditions and triggers breeding instincts. The daytime temperature should remain stable.
- Introducing the Pair
Once the cooling period is complete, introduce the male to the female’s enclosure. Breeding behaviour may involve the male courting the female by rubbing his chin along her body and wrapping his tail around hers.
- Ovulation and Pregnancy
After successful mating, the female will undergo ovulation, where her midsection will appear noticeably swollen.
This is a sign that she’s carrying fertilized eggs. Ovulation usually lasts a day or two, followed by a gestation period of around 4-5 months.
- Gestation and Care
During gestation, it’s important to maintain proper humidity and provide a warm basking area.
The female may reduce her food intake or stop eating entirely during this time.
- Birth
Hypo Jungle Boas gives birth to live young. After 4-5 months, the female will give birth to a litter of 10-25 live baby boas.
The babies are independent from birth and can be housed separately.
Hypo Jungle Boa Care Sheet
1. Enclosure
- Tank Size: Minimum 4x2x2 feet for adults.
- Substrate: Cypress mulch or coconut husk for humidity retention.
- Hides: Provide two hides, one on each side of the enclosure.
- Climbing & Enrichment: Jungle boas enjoy some vertical space; add sturdy branches.
- Lighting: No UVB required, but a day-night cycle with natural light is ideal.
- Temperature Gradient: 88-92°F on the warm side, 75-80°F on the cool side.
- Humidity Levels: 60-75%; mist daily or as needed.
2. Feeding
- Diet: Rats or large mice.
- Feeding Schedule: Feed juveniles weekly, adults every 10-14 days.
- Supplements: Not necessary with a balanced diet.
- Live vs. Frozen-Thawed Prey: Frozen-thawed prey is safer and recommended.
3. Water
- Water Bowl Size: Large enough for soaking.
- Freshness: Change water daily for hygiene.
- Humidity Contribution: A water bowl helps to increase humidity naturally.
4. Handling
- Temperament: Typically calm and curious, good for regular handling.
- Best Practices: Handle gently and frequently to maintain their calm nature.
- Handling Tips: Avoid handling after feeding or when shedding.
5. Shedding
- Signs of Shedding: Skin dulls, eyes turn blue.
- Shedding Frequency: About every 4-6 weeks.
- Shedding Assistance: Increase humidity if shedding becomes difficult.
6. Health & Common Issues
- Signs of Good Health: Active, clear skin, regular feeding.
- Signs of Illness: Wheezing, loss of appetite, or mites.
- Common Health Issues: Respiratory infections, dehydration, and shedding problems.
- Veterinary Care: Seek a vet if signs of illness persist.
7. Cleaning & Maintenance
- Enclosure Cleaning: Spot clean waste weekly, and deep clean monthly.
- Disinfecting Tips: Use a reptile-safe cleaner for all surfaces.
Conclusion
The Hypo Jungle Boa is a visually stunning snake, known for its vibrant colors and unique patterns.
With its docile temperament and beautiful appearance, it’s a fantastic choice for both new and experienced reptile enthusiasts.
If you’re looking for a boa that’s both eye-catching and manageable, the Hypo Jungle Boa is an ideal pick.
