The Red Tail Boa (Boa constrictor imperator) will usually get 7-8 feet long, with the potential to get up to 10 feet long. When full grown this snake will weigh 50 or more pounds. Red Tails have an average lifespan of 15-25 years. Baby snakes can be kept in a 20 long tank, full grown snakes should be kept in enclosures 6x2x2 feet.
Young Red Tail Boas will eat pinkies and should be fed every 5-7 days. When older these snakes will need to take prey about the size of a large rat and should be fed less frequently or about 10-14 days. Appalachian Tails recommends always 
feeding frozen prey items which ensures the snake will not get injured during feeding. Since Appalachian Tails only carries captive-bred snakes (much better quality and health) all of our snakes are currently taking frozen items. Remember to feed the snake in a bare bottom cage, so the snake won’t ingest bedding. If you pet snake stops eating, it is usually an indication that something is wrong. Examine the environment of the snake, and also the handling. Check for signs that the snake may be shedding soon, as they usually stop eating when close to the time of shedding.
For a habitat we recommend using bark, as long as the snake is fed outside of the cage. During the day the snake should have a cool side (80-85 F) and a warm side (85-90 F) of the cage, with a basking spot of low 90’s. During the night the cage should be kept around 70-75 degrees. The hobbyist can use infrared heat lighting for nighttime viewing. Humidity should be kept around 50-55 percent all the time, and increased to 65-70 percent during shedding. The cage should contain a hide out on both the warm side and the cool side, so the snake can thermo regulate, but still feel safe. The cage should also have a water dish large enough for the snake to fully submerge its whole body in. The water dish should be checked everyday for feces, and the cage should be cleaned about once a week.
If you ever have any questions, or simply want to check out one of our snakes...pop in anytime. I hope you enjoyed my article, and see you soon at Appalachian Tails!