You can also try the "rub" method. It is easy and doesn't harm the snake in any way.
Place your thumb right below the vent and your index finger on the opposite side and grasp the boa. With gentle, but firm pressure, slide your grasp down towards the tip of the tail. About 1/3 of the way down, you will feel two tiny balls slip out from under your thumb if it is a male. You will feel nothing on a female. Try it on a few of you know gender if you can. It works up to 3 feet, no problems. I've been successful up to 4-5 feet, if you have a trim animal. Too much fat or muscle hinders the ability to feel the "balls" or hemipines move.
I've never been wrong with this method, and you won't either once you get the hang of it. I think it's the best method for young boas. I've heard it works on pythons too, although not balls/bloods, as they don't have the same tail shape.
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