Kenyan Sand Boas, originating from the arid regions of East Africa, are popular pets due to their docile nature and unique appearance. These stout-bodied snakes, typically reaching lengths of 18-36 inches, require specific care to thrive in captivity. This guide provides detailed information on creating the ideal environment for your Kenyan Sand Boa, focusing on substrate, temperature, humidity, and enclosure setup.
A Kenyan Sand Boa in its natural habitat
Natural History and Characteristics
Kenyan Sand Boas are native to Kenya and other East African regions. They are well-adapted to dry areas with loose, sandy soil, where they spend most of their time burrowing. These nocturnal snakes have small eyes, heads that are not well-defined from their bodies, and a preference for burrowing in substrate, especially during daylight hours.
Females of the species typically grow larger than males by two years of age. These snakes are known for being docile and rarely bite, preferring to ball up or escape when threatened.
Enclosure Setup
Creating the right enclosure is crucial for the health and well-being of your Kenyan Sand Boa. Here's what you need to consider:
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Enclosure Size
A 20-gallon tank is a suitable starting size for a Kenyan Sand Boa. The larger the enclosure the better. Floor space is more important than vertical space for this species. A Zilla 20L Front Opening Terrarium or Zilla 10G Critter Cage can work for babies. Large adult female Kenyan Sand Boas will do best in Zilla 40BR Front Opening Terrarium or Zilla 40BR Critter Cage.
Ventilation
Proper ventilation is essential. Plastic enclosures like sweater boxes can have ventilation holes created using a soldering iron or a drill.
Substrate
Kenyan Sand Boas prefer to burrow, so the right substrate is crucial. Despite their name, they do not require sand. Sand boas don’t necessarily need sand as a substrate. You can try other options like - coconut mulch, aspen layering, or newspapers. Here are some suitable options:
- Aspen: Can be used if agitated daily and changed weekly, with a depth of 2-4 inches.
- Top Soil and Play Sand Mixture: A 60-70% top soil to 40-30% play sand mixture can be used for a naturalistic setup, but it requires careful monitoring.
- Zilla Bark Blend, Zilla Desert Blend, and Zilla Snake and Lizard Litter: These are also good choices.
It is important to avoid pine or cedar shavings, as the aromatic oils can be irritating to snakes.
If newspaper, paper towel, or reptile carpet is being used it is recommended to shred newspaper on top to promote burrowing behavior and to prevent undue stress on the animal.
Read also: Sand Boa Feeding Guide
Different substrate options for Kenyan Sand Boas
Temperature
The enclosure should have a temperature gradient of 76-82°F on the cool side and 80-85°F on the warm side, with a basking spot of 95°F. This can be achieved using an under-tank heater or heat tape (placed outside the enclosure). These temperatures should be maintained with a thermostat and monitored with two thermometers ideally. One thermometer should be placed on the warm end an inch above the substrate and the other an inch above the substrate on the cool end of the enclosure.
Humidity
Humidity should be maintained under 50% to prevent health issues. Proper ventilation and placing the water bowl on the cool side of the enclosure can help maintain low humidity.
Accessories
Include two hide boxes, one on the warm side and one on the cooler side, especially if burrowing substrate is not provided. Rocks can also be added for enrichment, ensuring they are well-anchored.
Lighting
While Kenyan Sand Boas are nocturnal and do not require intense lighting, a 5.0 ReptiSun UVB bulb is recommended during the daylight portion of the light cycle. UVA/UVB light has been shown to greatly improve the immune system, health, and wellness of all reptiles. 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 behaviors from the UVA being emitted.
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Feeding
In the wild, Kenyan Sand Boas primarily feed on rodents, lizards, and small birds. In captivity, they are typically fed mice, with a preference for smaller prey. It is highly recommended to feed only pre-killed prey to avoid injury to the snake. Chicago Exotics recommends feeding properly thawed frozen rodents.
Hatchlings are typically fed pinkies, while adults can eat small mice or hopper mice. Hatchlings should be fed every 5-7 days, and adults every 7-10 days.
Be sure to heat up a frozen mouse before feeding it to your boa. A cup of hot water will thaw and heat up a pinky nicely.
Feeding a Kenyan Sand Boa
How to set up a Kenyan Sand Boa BioActive Enclosure with the Dude
Handling
Great care should be taken when handling sand boas. Locate the head of your boa and then scoop up their tail with your hand and pick them up by the rear third of their body. I have not had any bites occur using the previous method of handling.
Common Health Issues
One of the most common health problems faced by Kenyan sand boas in captivity is dehydration, which can lead to shedding problems. Signs of dehydration include wrinkled or lumpy skin and creased eyes. Ensure proper humidity levels and provide a water bowl for drinking.
Shedding
Kenyan Sand boas don’t eat when they shed. During the period of shedding, which usually lasts one to two weeks, feed them small meals. Avoid handling them much, as that causes stress. Young Kenyan sand boas often have trouble shedding. You should soak your snake in warm water if it has retained shed.
Preventative Care
All snake owners should have on hand a probiotic to be given to their snake about once a month. I use a product called NutriBac which is a probiotic designed to promote healthy digestion. I dip the rear end of the mouse or pinky in the NutriBac and feed the sand boa as usual.
Kenyan Sand Boa Care Summary
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Enclosure Size | Minimum 36"L x 18"W x 18"H |
| Substrate | Topsoil/sand mix, aspen, or reptile-specific blends |
| Temperature Gradient | Cool side: 76-82°F, Warm side: 80-85°F, Basking spot: 95°F |
| Humidity | 50-60% |
| Lighting | UVB recommended |
| Feeding | Pre-killed mice or Reptilinks, varied diet |
By following these guidelines, you can create a thriving environment for your Kenyan Sand Boa, ensuring its health and happiness for years to come.
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