Natural history:

Kenyan Sand Boas (Eryx colubrinus) are a small (18-36 inches long) docile species native to arid and semi-arid environments of East Africa and are typically crepuscular to nocturnal (active at dawn/dusk and night). Females typically grow larger than males and are ovoviviparous (eggs are incubated internally and then hatched to give birth to live young). With good care, a lifespan of 15-20 years is expected. 

Enclosure size:

At minimum, 36"L x 18"W x 18"H. Solitary housing is recommended. 

UVB lighting:

Although not strictly required, low intensity UVB lighting for 6-12 hours daily is recommended (such as Zoo Med T5 HO Reptisun 5.0 or Arcadia ShadeDweller. Replace your UVB bulb every 6-12 months.  

Substrate:

Sand boas are fossorial (burrowing) and require deep substrate (at least 3-4 inches) such as reptile sand or aspen shavings to allow full submergence. Substrate should be spot cleaned as needed and fully replaced at least every 3 months. Cork flats are good additions for decoration and enrichment. 

Temperature:

Provide a temperature gradient of 75-80F on the cool end and 95F in the basking area during the day, and temperatures of 70-75F at night without supplemental heat.  

Humidity:

Provide a humid hide with a humidity of 50-60% during shedding and shallow water dish.  

Diet / feeding:

Feed babies every 5-7 days,  juveniles every 1-2 weeks and adults every 2-4 weeks. Whole prey, ideally frozen thawed rodents or reptilinks is recommended. Live prey can cause injury. Feeding in a separate clean container / tote can be helpful to prevent accidental ingestion of substrate and impaction.  

Veterinary care:

All reptiles should have an annual physical and fecal examination.