Reptile · Boa
Javelin sand boa care guide
Eryx jaculus
The javelin sand boa is a intermediate-level boa from SE Europe, N Africa, Middle East. Adults reach 40–80 cm and live 15–20 years in captivity. Buries in deep sand; offer a winter cooling period. Solitary.
- Enclosure 60 × 45 × 30 cm
- Temp Warm 30–33°C, cool 22°C
- Humidity 20–40%
How much does a javelin sand boa cost in Canada?
Javelin sand boa quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- 40–80 cm
- Lifespan
- 15–20 years
- Activity
- Crepuscular
- Native range
- SE Europe, N Africa, Middle East
- Minimum enclosure
- 60 × 45 × 30 cm (24 × 18 × 12 in, ≈ 21 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Warm 30–33°C, cool 22°C
- Humidity
- 20–40%
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Carnivore – frozen/thawed mice
- Bioactive style
- Arid desert
Javelin sand boa enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 60 × 45 × 30 cm (24 × 18 × 12 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a arid desert bioactive build.
- Soil and sand mix15 cm
A deep, sandy mix packed firmly lets burrows hold their shape; keep only the deepest layer faintly moist.
Temperature: Warm 30–33°C, cool 22°C. Humidity: 20–40%. UVB: Recommended.
What does a javelin sand boa eat?
Carnivore – frozen/thawed mice. Feed one small thawed mouse every 10–14 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Calm but quick to strike at movement.
Health watch: Watch for respiratory infections.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check basking temperatures; refresh water (or mist lightly for species that drink droplets).
Weekly
- Spot-clean waste.
Monthly
- Lightly moisten one deep corner so burrows hold and isopods survive.
- Check rock stacks are stable.
Yearly
- Refresh the top layer; replace UVB bulbs on schedule.
Recommended for a javelin sand boa bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (60 × 45 × 30 cm).
Javelin sand boa FAQ
Is the javelin sand boa good for beginners?
The javelin sand boa is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Calm but quick to strike at movement.
What size enclosure does a javelin sand boa need?
At least 60 × 45 × 30 cm (about 24 × 18 × 12 inches, roughly 21 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a javelin sand boa cost in Canada?
Typically $200–500 CAD to buy, about $410–750 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $120–250 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a javelin sand boa need?
Temperature: Warm 30–33°C, cool 22°C. Humidity: 20–40%.
What does a javelin sand boa eat?
Carnivore – frozen/thawed mice. Feed one small thawed mouse every 10–14 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.