Corallus caninus Nederland - website dedicated to the Emerald Tree Boa of South America

Feeding and drinking
Fresh drinking water should be supplied and refreshed on a daily basis. Juveniles are fed once every 7-10 days, adults every 2-3 weeks. Excessive feeding will make the animals fat and present health problems or prevent mating/breeding. Although Corallus caninus can manage relatively large prey, it is not recommended. Prey offered to the snakes should be no larger than the diameter of the snake's own body. Always feed in the late evening or at night (to keep them active) and never leave live prey unattended in the cage. Live prey is recommended because hunting keeps the snake alert and active after dark and active snakes are much less prone to obesity [Oxtoby, Lacerta 1989].

Precautions when handling
Contrary to what some keepers may claim, Corallus caninus can produce serious injuries if not handled with due care. Especially when handling adult specimens, be sure to keep the snake's head well away from the face, as strikes to the face can cause very severe lacerations. Remember that this species has the largest teeth (proportionally) of all non-venomous snakes, a very powerful strike and can therefore present a real risk due to its unpredictable nature [see photo below].

CARING FOR CORALLUS CANINUS
IN CAPTIVITY

Corallus caninus is a very delicate species of boa and not suitable for beginners. The wrong care and husbandry will inevitably result in disappointment and health problems in the acquired specimen(s) if the keeper has insufficient experience and cannot provide the correct physical environment and conditions in captivity that are required.

Housing and lighting
Corallus caninus is an aboreal species, so a vivarium of approx. 80 cm x 70 cm x 45 cm (l x h x w) is an appropriate size to house one individual (perhaps 2 individuals during the mating season). The cage/vivarium should be provided with ample climbing and resting perches, so branches of varying thickness are recommended. A 12-hour light cycle each day (equator light cycle) must be maintained and this can be achieved with the use of normal lights, tubelights or halogen spotlights.

Temperature and humidity
Daily temperatures should be between 26-29 degrees; night temperatures should vary between 20-25 degrees C. Heating can be achieved by using spotlights, IR-heat sources, or heat panels. There should also be a basking spot for the snakes to warm up when they choose. Many compare temp. and humidity requirements with that of Morelia viridis (the green tree python) but this is not the case. Corallus caninus is best kept at temperatures a little lower than in Morelia viridis because food digestion in Corallus caninus takes longer. It is the same in their natural environment. Lower temperatures will prevent regurgitation, an ailment often seen in Corallus caninus due to incorrect temperatures and humidity (imbalance).
Humidity should be somewhere in the range of 70-85% and can be achieved by spraying the confinement once or twice daily or by providing ample water or misting. Even though the animals originate from rain-forest habitats, the animals should not be sprayed directly on their bodies. This is not appreciated by Corallus caninus and can cause stress. Excessive humidity and temperatures will lead to health problems. Excessive or prolonged periods of more than 90% humidity can be harmful and result in respiratory problems [RI = respiratory infections].