It's the start of winter here in Fiji, and I think we are ready to start the breeding project I've been talking about for over a year now. So far all our captive born neonates have been accidents from wild-caught pregnant females. I'd like to do something with more direction.



I have read up as much as I can from out here, (and thanks to Jerry Conway's Candoia page) but I am in a place with limited facilities and no-one with previous experience, so I'd really appreciate very specific advice and expertise. And please forgive me for the inevitable stupid questions...



The Plan:

Between three people keeping Fiji Boa Candoia bibroni bibroni, (at Fijian ambient temperatures and light levels of course) we have two large (about 1.5m) females (one brown/grey, one black with a BLAZING red belly), and four much smaller males (225 gms in weight, just under 1m long and about a third of the girth of the females). The males are quite varied in colour, tending to brown/grey/pinkish with partially red bellies. (I'll post some new pics soon, but see my photo gallery.)



QUESTION 1: Does this size difference sound OK? Don't want anyone to get crushed or swallowed!



Winter has started: lowest nighttime temps of 20oC (68oF), daytime 26 - 28oC (79 - 82oF) for the past 2 weeks. This should continue for another 2- 3 months. It's usually coldest in July/ August.



QUESTION 2: Am I right in thinking that the best time to put them together would probably be about July when it's been cold for 4-6 weeks?



QUESTION 3: As I have 4 males and 2 females, what's the best way to put them together to stimulate follicle production?

All four males with one female at a time?

All four males and both females in the same tank?

Two males with each female, in separate tanks?



QUESTION 4: How long should the males be left in with the females?



I have more questions, but if you've read this far (thank you!), you're probably suffering from post fatigue by now so I'll leave them for other postings.



Many thanks for all advice!
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