Python vs Boa: The Main Differences (With Pictures)

Pythons and boa constrictors are large, non-venomous snakes that are a popular pet choice among reptile lovers. Although they both look very similar, there are some significant differences between them that could alter which one you prefer to bring home. Pythons are native to Africa, Australia, and Asia, while boas are mainly from North and South America.

Neither snake has changed too much over the millions of years they’ve inhabited this earth. In total, there are about 40 boa species and 31 python species. With so many options, how do you know which one is right for you?

Let’s take a look at some of the differences between these two snakes to help you determine which one could be your new, scaly pet.

Visual Differences

At a Glance

Python Overview

Although the idea of a giant snake scares a few people, there are some who don’t shy away from these unique animals. Pythons are considered animals from the Old World. The name python refers to both the Pythonidae family and the Python genus. Although pythons are similar to boas in that they constrict their bodies around their prey to kill them, they are two species with distinctive characteristics.

The python family contains some of the biggest snakes in the world, topping out at over 33 feet long. The size and coloration of the snakes can vary depending on their natural habitats. Some pythons have elaborate patterns, and others are solid colors like brown or bright green. One of the most significant differences between pythons and boas is their anatomy. Pythons have more bones in their head and a pair of upper jaw bones containing teeth. Even though most snakes only have one lung, pythons and boas have two.

Pythons also can sense heat using pits along their lips to detect even the tiniest differences when hunting warm-blooded prey. To reproduce, pythons must lay eggs and lay on them to incubate them until they are ready to hatch. This categorizes pythons as oviparous snakes.

Personality

Pythons are a little more afraid of confrontation than boa constrictors. Pythons prefer to spend their days in a docile state and avoid commotion. They make excellent pets because they aren’t aggressive and don’t wiggle around too much when holding them.

Exercise

Although pythons are typically relaxed and easygoing, they can’t spend every day in their cage. Give them at least 20 minutes of physical and mental stimulation. Add lots of branches or other things for them to climb on in their enclosures. Most importantly, allow them to move to places outside of their tanks. New environments get their minds working, make life more interesting, and prevent them from becoming obese.

Health & Care

Diet and habitat are two factors that you can’t skimp on when raising a python. These snakes must eat appropriately sized rodents at room temperature at least once every week or two weeks. Keep a bowl full of fresh, chlorine-free water in its enclosures at all times.

If possible, place a large bowl in the enclosure so that your snake can soak in it occasionally. Only use tanks large enough for your python’s size. They enjoy substrate made from coconut fiber or aspen shavings. Keep temperatures between 78°F and 95°F and provide 8 to 12 hours of light during the day. Keep the enclosure moist to help them shed their skin.

Suitable For:

Because they are so laid back compared to other species, pythons are an excellent option if you are a beginner snake owner. They don’t grow as large as boas in captivity, and handling them is very simple. They can live for several decades, so make sure you are committed to a lifelong relationship.

Boa Overview

Even though boa constrictors are usually smaller than many other python species, they tend to grow much larger when in captivity. They are close cousins to anacondas and are excellent swimmers, although they prefer to stay dry when they can. They can be red, tan, green, or yellow or have patterns with jagged lines, diamonds, and circles.

Boas are a lot more active than pythons. They aren’t aggressive to their handlers but are more likely to defend themselves when they feel threatened than shy away from a fight. Boas have smaller heads with fewer teeth and bones. However, their teeth are hooked to help them latch onto their prey while they squeeze them. They also eat nearly anything put in front of them. Wild boas eat birds, pigs, and even monkeys when lucky enough to catch one.

Unlike pythons, boas are ovoviviparous and do not lay eggs. The female boas hold their eggs inside their bodies, where they also incubate them. The snake eggs hatch while still inside the mother, who then gives birth to live babies. Once out, the young are left to fend for themselves.

Personality

Boa constrictors are solitary animals and enjoy keeping to themselves as much as possible. They are also nocturnal, although they come out occasionally to sun themselves during the day. Even though they are good swimmers, they would rather spend time on dry land or hanging in a tree. They might also burrow themselves into their substrate. Although docile, boas are harder to handle because they wiggle a lot more.

Exercise

Boas require exercise similar to that of a python. Snakes need mental stimulation and to experience new environments outside of their enclosure. They are considered ambush predators, so making the hunt more interesting is a good way to get them moving and thinking.

Health & Care

Baby boa snakes are okay to house in a glass aquarium, but you’ll have to change it to a custom tank as they grow. They are powerful and smart animals. Snake experts consider them escape artists, and they will find their way out of their enclosure whenever given the opportunity.

Provide your boa with plenty of hiding places, including logs and greenery. Keep the tank’s heat between 78°F and 85°F, with a basking spot at least 90°F. They do not require any special UV lighting but enjoy a diet with plenty of vitamin D. The cage humidity should always remain between 60 and 70 percent. Use substrate that mimics their natural environment. Good options are paper, reptile carpet, or reptile bark.

Suitable For:

Boa constrictors are suitable for almost all snake enthusiasts. Although some beginners do a good job caring for them, they do best with someone who has a basic understanding of caring for reptiles. Do not pair them with someone who will get scared or shy away from them.

Which Breed Is Right for You?

For two snakes with a lot of similarities, there are some differences that could make you change your mind about bringing one or the other home. Both of these snakes are large, gentle animals. However, pythons are a go-to species if this is your first time working with snakes. They are more relaxed and a little less demanding regarding their habitat and feeding routines. You won’t make a wrong choice as long as you research each snake and figure out which one will work best for what you’re looking for.

• See also: Boston Terrier vs French Bulldog: The Main Differences (With Pictures)

Featured Image Credit by: Top – Kapa65, Pixabay | Bottom – zoosnow, Pixabay