Mexico is home to a very diverse range of Boa imperator. Their size and appearance change drastically depending on the region but One locality in particular, hails from the northeastern state of Mexico called, Tamaulipas. In Tamaulipas, boas can be found all along the southern part of the state. To the east, the boas are quite large and less colorful but to the west, in the mountains, is home for a colorful dwarf locality which is one kept in captivity.
The only Tamaulipas locality that is worked with in captivity can be referred to as Tamaulipas Cloud Forest Boas. The area that they inhabit is a tropical deciduous forest around 1100 meters above sea level. In winter, which is the dry season for that region, the temperatures can drop down to the low 50’s and because of that it makes it a very hardy boa to work with in captivity.
These boas are much different than other localities and unfortunately aren’t commonly kept in captivity due to their “brown color” but they are very much an underrated locality. When neonates, their main coloring is grey with brown saddles and markings. As they mature they start developing a deep red/copper coloring extending up their sides to their backs. The saddles turn a deeper brown which contrasts with the lighter brown coloring that replaces some of the grey they were born with. They transform from just another drab boa to a boa that could contend with any other imperator locality out there.
An advantage of keeping this locality is that they are true dwarves, meaning they are an incredibly easy boa to work with because of their size. It is reported that adults usually max out at less than 5 feet but most do not seem to even go past the 4 foot mark and if any of them do then it is not by much.
Due to their smaller size they can be kept in a variety of different tub sizes or enclosures. I recommend at least a 32qt or 41qt tub. I have heard reports that some individuals keep and breed them in 28qt tubs. They will also do great in cages and do not seem to mind the extra space as long as there are ample hiding places. They are a great boa to keep in racks or in display enclosures.
Their temperature requirements are also pretty simple. I keep them between 79-81 degrees normally with a hot spot of 88 degrees. During the winter I drop them down to 73- 75 degrees and drop the hotspot to 86 degrees.
As far as feeding goes they do not seem to be picky in what they eat and have a great feeding response. Just in my observations alone these boas seem to apply a lot more force than any other Central American locality when it comes to constricting prey. When feeding it is important not to overfeed as with most dwarf boas they don’t require much food and tend to become overweight rapidly.
I personally feed them like I would any other dwarf boa, with neonates eating every 10 to14 days, sub-adults eating every 2 to 3 weeks, and then adults eating every 4 to 6 weeks. These boas are truly built to survive; they do great with less than 12 feedings per year.
They are tolerant of handling but can be nervous the first couple of years. As neonates they tend to hiss a lot but it is mainly all show. Once out of the tub they calm down fairly fast. It all depends on the individual as well but most will calm down with frequent handling.
All things considered, I think they are a perfect choice for a pet boa for those that are looking for something a little smaller than a Colombian or other locality but are searching for something a little more unique and uncommon.
They are a must have for any locality enthusiast and make a great addition for anyone looking for a rare and colorful locality. They are truly an extraordinary locality and it is recommended not to cross breed to preserve the locality for future generations.
