Reptile & Amphibian Forums

OK I'm seriously considering a hypomelanistic BCI, when/if I get him he'd be about 1.5 months old. From a breeder, not a petshop. I've done a good bit of research but wondering if anyone had any opinions. I'll be starting him out in a 20 gallon long..is that an ok size (not too big)? How long could I expect that to last on normal feeding? Also, as they age, I've read that their color will "muddy"...does that just mean deepen, or doe sit meant he contrast between light and dark areas diminishes? Also I've read taht with consistant handling they can be very docile. Do you gusy agree? Will they like to hang out being handled or are they too flighty? Thanks so much and give me any advice you can! thanks!

BCI's rule...as far as a "pet" snake you can do no better (in MY humble opioin lol)ive had maverick since he was 7 days old..and hes going on 5 now at 6' 20lbs. and hes been handled since day one(at least 15 minutes a day-exept up to 2-3 days after feeding)...but thats a rule i follow with all my snakes..my female boa ive only had for about 4 months and shes already 2 years old so shes not real aggresive shes just not as trusting as my boy..but i handle her everyday and she is getting better...as for the cage size you can try that for now...if it wont eat try a smaller cage..if it does and you feed it well (do not powerfeed)the cage should last a year maybe...

I have had my 2 bci for almost one year now. In the past I have had an albino cal kingsnake(ist snake, the an albino whitewater rosy boa, then a ball python. DIdnt really like any of the first three. I went a reptile show in CA, and overheard a guy talking to someone who was considering buying a bci. I wasnt interested until I went to LLLReptile and they had a nice litter of bci for 40.00. So I asked if I could hold one, and she dipped her in and said that this is the only cage that she feels comfortable enough putting her in without worry AT ALL. I Love my bci, Big Boi. Even when he is in his shedding stage, milky eyes and all, he has never snapped at me. Is this your first snake? If your looking for a very mild tempered snake, which can grow very rapid, bci are what your looking for!!

VDH(Attached pic is from last year)

No I currently have a 1.5 year old female ball python. She's the only snake I've ever had. I don't mind the larger size, I just want a docile snake that is fine with being handled. Thanks for the info!

>I don't mind the larger size, I just want a docile snake that is fine with being handled.

Every snake is an individual, and some are more docile than others. But the combination of size and handlability is the reason that boa constrictors have been a traditional favorite with snake charmers/exotic dancers.

If you can, see the animal before you buy and pick one that is both docile and in good health. Start with a baby BCI and handle it for 5-15 minutes every day except the day after feeding. The snake will probably get as tame as any snake can get.

By the way, wrapping any snake all the way around your neck is a bad idea. I learned that when a 4 foot bullsnake started to slip and clamped down on my neck. It is incredible how much power even a small snake can apply when it wants.

Paul Hollander