Reptile · Boa
Viper boa care guide
Candoia aspera
The viper boa is a advanced-level boa from New Guinea, Bismarck Archipelago. Adults reach 60–90 cm and live 15–20 years in captivity. Mimics a death adder; captive-bred animals feed far better. Solitary.
- Enclosure 60 × 45 × 30 cm
- Temp Warm 27–29°C, cool 24°C
- Humidity 70–80%
How much does a viper boa cost in Canada?
Viper boa quick facts
- Skill level
- Advanced
- Adult size
- 60–90 cm
- Lifespan
- 15–20 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- New Guinea, Bismarck Archipelago
- Minimum enclosure
- 60 × 45 × 30 cm (24 × 18 × 12 in, ≈ 21 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Warm 27–29°C, cool 24°C
- Humidity
- 70–80%
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Carnivore – frozen/thawed mice, frogs
- Bioactive style
- Humid terrestrial
Viper boa enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 60 × 45 × 30 cm (24 × 18 × 12 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a humid terrestrial bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix10 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: 70–80%. UVB: Recommended.
What does a viper boa eat?
Carnivore – frozen/thawed mice, frogs. Feed one small thawed mouse every 10–14 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Short-tempered and quick to strike; harmless but bites.
Health watch: Watch for parasites and feeding refusal in imports.
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 viper boa bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (60 × 45 × 30 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
Viper boa FAQ
Is the viper boa good for beginners?
The viper boa is an advanced species – best for experienced keepers. Short-tempered and quick to strike; harmless but bites.
What size enclosure does a viper 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 viper boa cost in Canada?
Typically $150–400 CAD to buy, about $480–890 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $150–300 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a viper boa need?
Temperature: Warm 27–29°C, cool 24°C. Humidity: 70–80%.
What does a viper boa eat?
Carnivore – frozen/thawed mice, frogs. 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.