Large Constrictors

Burmese python

Many people, when thinking about acquiring a pet snake, will dream of a boa or python. The allure of these large snakes has drawn many a pet owner in, only for them to find in the future that the animal has become too much to handle.

It is important to be aware of what the baby snake that you may decide to purchase will grow into. Some boas may only get to be 1 metre long, but others may grow to over 3 metres. Python size can also vary, some only just reaching adulthood at 3½ metres, with the potential to reach 9 metres long.

Because of the power and potential of these animals, a minimum of two people is required when working even with medium-sized adults of these snakes. These animals are often ill-tempered and difficult to care for. They are not suitable pets.

Many cities (including Toronto) and towns have by-laws against keeping large snakes.