The Boa Constrictor Manual (Advanced Vivarium Systems)

By Roger KlingenbergPhilippe De VosjoliRoger J. Klingenberg, et al.

Book Overview

Colombian common boa constrictors are rated among the best of the large pet snakes, being attractive and relatively docile and safe. Three experts discuss the husbandry, breeding and medical problems of these popular snakes. Diseases and disorders are thoroughly covered. IBD, an epidemic viral disease in captive boas is discussed in great detail. All subspecies and many of the currently bred pattern and color morphs are displayed in outstanding color photos. A must have for beginner or expert.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1882770412
• ISBN13: 9781882770410
• Release Date: August 1998
• Publisher: Advanced Vivarium Systems
• Length: 84 Pages
• Weight: 0.40 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.2" x 5.5" x 8.5"

Customer Reviews

Read this before you get the snake!

Many pet shop workers don't know enough to give you decent care instructions for a goldfish, let alone a boa. These snakes are no joke. If you get one and decide you can't handle it after a certain point, you'll discover that finding someone to take it off your hands is not easy. (I would highly recommend not buying a snake at all, but rescuing one.) My Columbian boa was acquired as an 18" infant. By age six, he was ten feet long and, at his widest point, as big around as the narrowest part of my thigh. He gladly ate pre-killed food and never had a sick day in his life, thanks to a good exotic pet vet. and this remarkable book. De Vosjoli knows what he's talking about. From species ID to safe and appropriate handling to housing, humidity, and temperature requirements, this book can't be bettered. Given some of the snake-handling mishaps that end up in the news now and then, it's refreshing to find a book that dares to admonish us thusly: "Don't be stupid."

Must read!

Anyone thinking of owning a boa constrictor must read this book. I foster abandoned boas and this book would save the snake and future owners lots of trauma. Buy it now!

Wonderful

If you could only buy one book on Boa Constrictors, this would be it. I had the first printing of this title, and just got the updated version- definitely an improvement. The book details all aspects of their care and breeding, and gives you the hard facts of owning these large beautiful creatures. You will not find redundant or conflicting information unlike some other boa books. Even if you are only considering getting a red tail, do yourself a favor and read this book to find out what you're getting yourself into. I also recommend the books "What's wrong with my Snake?" and "Understanding Reptile Parasites" if you own or are thinking of owning a boa.

Required Reading

I had owned a copy of the original version of this book, and I have to say that this updated edition is even better. It's got some great information about breeding, disease and care that goes far beyond what the original contained, making it even more valuable than before. Like probably almost everyone else says, if you're only going to buy one book regarding the proper husbandry of boa constrictors, this is the book you should buy. It's so reasonably priced, there's no excuse not to.

The Boa Constrictor Manual

I was impressed by the no-nonsence approch of this book. If you are looking for useful, up-to-date information on Boas this is your book.