Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Alright. I'm pretty sure I've chosen the Emerald Tree Boa. But, that doesn't mean you shouldn't give me suggestions on other kinds. I have nearly a year before I'm getting it. I start saving this summer. I'm sure you're all glad to know I have close to a year to research my pet. I always see people rush into pets and end up screwing themselves and their pet. Anyways. I've got a few questions. Tey're the same ones I just thought I'd add a bunch.

For the Emerald Tree Boa:

1. How Long do they get? How thick? And how Heavy?
2. Which is larger, male or female?
3. In regards to Q. 2, what size tank would the full grown snake need. I don't want to have to keep upgrading tank size so I'd like to start with what it'll need as an adult.
4. I know they eat mice and rats and such but where do I get frozen dead mice and rats?
5. When it's young would It eat full grown mice or just babies?
6. When it's grown up, would it eat full grown rats, or babies?
7. I know that the ETB needs a horizontal perch. But how would you mount it in a glass tank? Or...
8. Is a glass tank best? I've seen plastic ones but do they get as big as needed.
9. What is the approximate cost of a ETB? I live in Canada so try and give me it in Canadian dollars... If you can't, no worries I'll figure it out.
10. What kind of lighting does it need? From my knowledge of snakes I'd say it would need a spotlight, and some sort of UV lights, UVA or UVB... Please fill me in on that...
11. Hmmm... I'm running out of questions.

Please answer what you can. I know it's alot but I'm really looking forward to this new companion and I don't think I can do it without knowing this stuff and probobly a bunch more. Please share any tips, advice, or anything at all regarding ETB's. Thank you so much ahead of time... - Champagne

I really admire your desire to learn about the animal prior to getting it. Most people dive in headfirst and then learn. However, you may want to explore other options. I have had emeralds for many years and in my experience, they really are not a beginner snake. If you do decide to move forward and purchase an emerald, spend the extra $ and get a CB one. As you will find, there are a ton of people out there, each one has their opinion on care, etc. I recommend you purchase a book and do a little research on their care.

I am in agreement an ETB should not be a first snake. A lot of your questions are basic first snake questions. That is great that you are asking first as so many people don't. ETB's and other arboreals are usually reserved for people that already have the basic out of the way.

To read more about their care visit:
Corallus.com. There is enough info there to answer all your questions.

Jason