Reptile · Boa
Cuban wood snake care guide
Tropidophis melanurus
The cuban wood snake is a advanced-level boa from Cuba. Adults reach 60–100 cm and live 10–15 years in captivity. Rare dwarf boa relative; often needs scented prey. Solitary.
- Enclosure 90 × 45 × 45 cm
- Temp Warm 27–29°C, cool 24°C
- Humidity 60–80%
How much does a cuban wood snake cost in Canada?
Cuban wood snake quick facts
- Skill level
- Advanced
- Adult size
- 60–100 cm
- Lifespan
- 10–15 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- Cuba
- Minimum enclosure
- 90 × 45 × 45 cm (35 × 18 × 18 in, ≈ 48 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Warm 27–29°C, cool 24°C
- Humidity
- 60–80%
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Carnivore – frogs, lizards, scented mice
- Bioactive style
- Humid terrestrial
Cuban wood snake enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 90 × 45 × 45 cm (35 × 18 × 18 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a humid terrestrial bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix10 cm
- Drainage – clay bio balls3 cm
Deep, moist soil is what holds humidity in this build – much better than thin bedding, especially through Canadian winters.
Temperature: Warm 27–29°C, cool 24°C. Humidity: 60–80%. UVB: Recommended.
What does a cuban wood snake eat?
Carnivore – frogs, lizards, scented mice. Feed one small prey item every 7–10 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Shy; may autohemorrhage from the eyes when stressed.
Health watch: Watch for feeding refusal and stress.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check warm and cool side temperatures and humidity.
- Refresh the water bowl.
Weekly
- Mist or pour water into the substrate to keep the lower layers moist.
- Spot-clean large waste promptly.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter.
- Stir and fluff compacted topsoil around hides.
- Check heat sources and thermostat calibration.
Yearly
- Partially refresh soil in high-traffic areas.
- Replace UVB bulbs (if used).
Recommended for a cuban wood snake bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (90 × 45 × 45 cm).
Clay Bio Balls
Drainage layer, 3 cm
Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix
Bioactive soil layer, 10 cm
Cypress Substrate
Optional top layer (cypress)
Red Oak Leaves 15/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Fresh Sphagnum Moss Container
Moss for humidity pockets and planting
Cork Bark Tubes
Secure hides at both ends of the gradient
Malaysian Drift Wood
Sturdy enrichment for heavy-bodied animals
Cuban wood snake FAQ
Is the cuban wood snake good for beginners?
The cuban wood snake is an advanced species – best for experienced keepers. Shy; may autohemorrhage from the eyes when stressed.
What size enclosure does a cuban wood snake need?
At least 90 × 45 × 45 cm (about 35 × 18 × 18 inches, roughly 48 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a cuban wood snake cost in Canada?
Typically $300–700 CAD to buy, about $640–1150 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $150–250 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a cuban wood snake need?
Temperature: Warm 27–29°C, cool 24°C. Humidity: 60–80%.
What does a cuban wood snake eat?
Carnivore – frogs, lizards, scented mice. Feed one small prey item every 7–10 days.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.