Brazilian Rainbow Boa | Epicrates cenchria

The Brazilian Rainbow Boa (Epicrates cenchria) is admired for the rainbow sheen that moves across its scales as the light changes. The animal shown has pale golden markings, dark outlines and beautifully patterned cream sides. This is a rewarding snake for a keeper who can provide a spacious enclosure and carefully managed humidity. Click & collect only from Newlands Reptile Centre, Clondalkin, Dublin 22. We do not ship live animals. Origin A tropical South American species associated with the Amazon Basin and Guiana Shield. Brazilian Rainbow Boas are mainly nocturnal and use both the forest floor and low branches. Temperature & Humidity Provide a temperature gradient, with a local basking surface around 30–32°C and cooler areas available. Daytime enclosure air should generally be around 26–29°C, falling to roughly 22–24°C at night. Adults need high humidity, around 70–80% by day with a rise at night. Young boas need especially consistent moisture; juveniles under a year may require 90–100%. Use thermostatically controlled, guarded heating and digital temperature and humidity gauges. Provide a humid hide, good ventilation and resting surfaces that are not constantly wet. Enclosure House individually in a secure enclosure that allows the snake to stretch out fully. Plan for approximately 180 × 90 × 90 cm for a typical adult, increasing this for larger animals. Include warm and cool hides, sturdy climbing branches, cover and a moisture-retaining substrate such as coconut fibre. Provide a stable water bowl large enough for soaking, and replace the water daily. Diet Offer appropriately sized, fully thawed frozen rodents using feeding tongs. Avoid live prey, which can injure the snake. Feeding frequency and prey size should suit the animal's age, size and body condition. Ask our reptile team for this boa's current feeding routine when collecting. Handling & Temperament Young animals may be nervous or defensive. Allow time to settle, then introduce short, gentle handling sessions while supporting the whole body. Avoid handling during shedding or immediately after feeding. Wash hands before and after contact. Adult Size & Lifespan Typically around 150–200 cm as an adult, with a potential lifespan of 20–30 years. This is a long-term commitment. Care Check temperatures, humidity and water daily; remove waste promptly. Have the enclosure running correctly before collection. Our team can help you choose suitable equipment and discuss settling-in care.