Kenyan Sand Boa

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Kenyan Sand Boa Care Guide

Eryx colubrinus

Kenyan sand boas are a small (18–36 inches), docile species native to the arid and semi-arid environments of East Africa. They are typically crepuscular to nocturnal — most active at dawn, dusk, and nighttime. Females generally grow larger than males and are ovoviviparous, meaning eggs are incubated internally and hatch to give birth to live young. With good care, a lifespan of 15–20+ years is expected.

Enclosure

Minimum enclosure size is 36″L × 18″W × 18″H. Solitary housing is recommended. Cork flats make good additions for decoration and enrichment.

Substrate

Kenyan 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. Spot clean as needed and fully replace at least every 3 months.

Temperature

Provide a temperature gradient throughout the enclosure:

  • Cool end (daytime): 75–80°F
  • Basking area (daytime): 95°F
  • Nighttime: 70–75°F (no supplemental heat needed)

A basking bulb, ceramic heat emitter, or radiant heat panel is recommended for heat. Hot rocks should be avoided entirely, and heat mats should never be placed inside the enclosure — both pose significant burn and shock risks. Use a digital thermometer at both the warm and cool ends to monitor temperatures, and use a thermostat to maintain the appropriate range.

UVB Lighting

Although not strictly required, low-intensity UVB lighting for 6–12 hours daily is recommended — such as the Zoo Med T5 HO Reptisun 5.0. Place the bulb approximately 12 inches from the basking area, adjusting based on bulb type and whether a mesh screen top is present. Replace UVB bulbs every 6–12 months.

Humidity

Provide a humid hide with 50–60% humidity during shedding, along with a shallow water dish. Monitor humidity with a digital hygrometer inside the enclosure.

Diet & Feeding

Feed whole prey — ideally frozen/thawed rodents or Reptilinks. Live prey can cause injury and should be avoided. Feeding in a separate clean container or tote is helpful to prevent accidental substrate ingestion and impaction.

  • Babies: every 5–7 days
  • Juveniles: every 1–2 weeks
  • Adults: every 2–4 weeks

Veterinary Care

An annual wellness examination and fecal screening for parasites is recommended for all reptiles.