Epicrates cenchria

Horizontal terrestrial terrarium, well enclosed and with strong humidity retention, with controlled ventilation. Provide at least two hides (warm side and cool side) and a sturdy branch.

Minimum for an adult; 150 x 70 x 60 cm or more is preferable for a large individual. Juveniles, which climb more, appreciate multiple branches and hides within a secure space.

Adults 70-80% with peaks at 90% during shedding. Neonates are EXTREMELY sensitive to dehydration: maintain 80-90%+. Ensure good ventilation to avoid stagnant air and infections.

A moisture-retaining substrate, kept damp but never waterlogged to prevent scale rot. Clean soiling regularly.

Not essential (nocturnal species). Low-level UVB (Ferguson Zone 1, ~2-5% / UVI ~0.5-1) is beneficial if provided along with shaded and refuge areas. Photoperiod ~12 h.

A large bowl of clean water available at all times, wide enough to allow full immersion; renew frequently. Hydration and humidity are critical, especially for neonates and during shedding.

Amazon Basin: Brazil and neighbouring regions of South America (French Guiana, Suriname, Venezuela, northern Bolivia). Species listed on CITES Appendix II (EU Annex B): trade is regulated — favour captive-bred (CB) animals and keep the proof-of-origin documents.

Strict carnivore (rodents) — Mice and rats of appropriate size (dead/thawed prey); occasionally chicks/birds.

Voracious appetite but slow metabolism: a real risk of obesity. Adult: 1 appropriate prey item every 10-14 days; juveniles more often. Prey ≈ 1 to 1.3 times the diameter of the widest part of the snake.

One litter per year after thermal and photoperiodic cycling. Neonates ~30-40 cm, independent but very sensitive to dehydration from birth.

• Respiratory infections (unsuitable temperature, ventilation or humidity)
• Poor sheds / dysecdysis linked to insufficient humidity
• Dehydration, particularly in neonates
• Scale rot if the substrate is too wet or soiled
• Obesity from overfeeding; mites