Reptile · Boa
Rough-scaled sand boa care guide
Eryx conicus
The rough-scaled sand boa is a beginner-level boa from India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka. Adults reach 40–90 cm and live 15–20 years in captivity. Spends most of its time buried. Solitary.
- Enclosure 60 × 45 × 30 cm
- Temp Warm 30–32°C, cool 24°C
- Humidity 30–50%
How much does a rough-scaled sand boa cost in Canada?
Rough-scaled sand boa quick facts
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Adult size
- 40–90 cm
- Lifespan
- 15–20 years
- Activity
- Crepuscular
- Native range
- India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka
- Minimum enclosure
- 60 × 45 × 30 cm (24 × 18 × 12 in, ≈ 21 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Warm 30–32°C, cool 24°C
- Humidity
- 30–50%
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Carnivore – frozen/thawed mice
- Bioactive style
- Arid desert
Rough-scaled 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 30–32°C, cool 24°C. Humidity: 30–50%. UVB: Recommended.
What does a rough-scaled sand boa eat?
Carnivore – frozen/thawed mice. Feed one appropriately sized thawed mouse every 10–14 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Usually calm; may strike at movement above the sand.
Health watch: Watch for respiratory infections and impaction.
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 rough-scaled sand boa bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (60 × 45 × 30 cm).
Rough-scaled sand boa FAQ
Is the rough-scaled sand boa good for beginners?
Yes – the rough-scaled sand boa is a good choice for beginners. Usually calm; may strike at movement above the sand.
What size enclosure does a rough-scaled 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 rough-scaled sand boa cost in Canada?
Typically $150–350 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 rough-scaled sand boa need?
Temperature: Warm 30–32°C, cool 24°C. Humidity: 30–50%.
What does a rough-scaled sand boa eat?
Carnivore – frozen/thawed mice. Feed one appropriately sized 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.