Hi!

I think a 20 gallon would be fine for a baby boa for at least the first year or two depending on how fast and furious you feed (I grow my boas up slow and steady). I keep mine in 2' neos for the first 1-3 years and then move up to 3' caging for a year or two and then finally into 4x2x2 cages as adults (my largest adult is only 7.5').
You *can* keep a baby in a small cage but you would need to provide at least 2-3 good hiding spots throughout the cage so the baby doesn't feel out in the open. Smaller cages when young usually make them feel more secure. I just moved 2 of my boas to new bigger cages and they are hiding. I notice they usually hide anywhere from 1-4 weeks before seeming to be 'comfortable' in the larger cages.

If you use flexwatt (I do too) that you get a good thermostat to control the temps. I like the big apple thermostat, worth the investment IMO. It's always a good idea to also have some thermometers in the cage in addition to using the temp gun, or at least a hydrometer to check humidity.

Fake plants make great decorations (esp when you get them at the dollar store!) and are easy to clean. Personally I like the look of a tank backdrop, either I make them on black posterboard or buy the fish tank backdrops ($1 a foot) and tape the the outside back of the tank.

It's a good idea to also have a rubbermaid tub or an extra tank so when you are cleaning the cage you have someplace secure to place the boa.

Good luck!
-April

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