Enclosures
Enclosure Selection & Design
The choice of enclosure is one of the most critical factors in successfully keeping an Emerald Tree Boa. Enclosure design directly impacts the keeper’s ability to maintain proper environmental parameters and, more importantly, the snake’s ability to exhibit natural behaviors and thrive long-term.
When selecting an enclosure, the primary goal should be to provide sufficient space for the animal to move, stretch, thermoregulate, and perch naturally, rather than simply meeting minimum dimensions.
Enclosure Size & Orientation
Emerald Tree Boas are highly arboreal snakes that spend the majority of their time perched on branches within the mid to upper canopy. As a result, enclosures must prioritize vertical height while still providing adequate horizontal space for properly sized perches.
While opinions vary among keepers, adult Emerald Tree Boas are commonly housed in vertically oriented enclosures that balance height and perch length. Frequently used enclosure dimensions include:
4 ft × 2 ft × 2 ft (1.22 m × 0.61 m × 0.61 m)
4 ft × 2 ft × 4 ft (1.22 m × 0.61 m × 1.22 m)
4 ft × 3 ft × 4 ft (1.22 m × 0.91 m × 1.22 m)
5 ft × 2 ft × 2 ft (1.52 m × 0.61 m × 0.61 m)
5 ft × 3 ft × 2 ft (1.52 m × 0.91 m × 0.61 m)
Taller enclosures allow for improved thermal gradients, multiple perch levels, and more natural resting positions. Adequate horizontal perch length is equally important, as Emerald Tree Boas rely on long, stable branches to support their body weight and characteristic resting posture.
Enclosure Materials
The material used for an enclosure plays a major role in temperature stability, humidity retention, and overall ease of maintenance.
Glass enclosures can be used but often present challenges for Emerald Tree Boa husbandry. Glass is a poor insulator, making it more difficult to maintain stable temperatures and humidity levels. Additionally, many glass enclosures utilize mesh tops, which can allow excessive humidity loss and complicate environmental control. While feasible, glass setups typically require additional modifications and close monitoring.
PVC enclosures are widely regarded as the preferred option among experienced keepers. These enclosures provide excellent insulation, improved temperature and humidity retention, long-term durability, and significant customization options. For most keepers, PVC enclosures offer the most stable and manageable environment for Emerald Tree Boas.
Sealed plywood enclosures are another viable option when constructed correctly. Plywood can be an affordable and customizable alternative; however, it must be thoroughly sealed to prevent moisture absorption, rot, and mold over time. Ventilation must also be carefully planned, as improper airflow can lead to stagnant air or excessive humidity buildup.
Enclosure Manufacturers
BlackBox Cages
https://www.blackboxcages.com/
BlackBox Cages manufactures precision-built, custom PVC enclosures and rack systems, including taller formats suitable for arboreal snakes. Every enclosure is CNC-cut to integrate lighting, radiant heat panels, and accessory ports directly into the structure, rather than mounting them afterward, creating a sealed, factory-integrated system engineered for your animal and your equipment.
All enclosures over four feet use ¾″ high-density PVC for maximum rigidity and thermal stability, while standard enclosures four feet and under are built from premium ½″ high-density PVC. Panels are dado-joined for structural strength and precision alignment. Every unit is pre-drilled, test-assembled in-house to verify fit and finish, then broken down for protected shipping and fast final assembly.
Custom sizes are available, including full rack systems and upcoming arboreal rack platforms. All BlackBox rack systems feature Fail-Safe heating design to prevent overheating in the event of thermostat failure or tub removal. proprietary accessories such as Lumenize™ lighting systems, light‑guard spacers that correct modern UVB fitment issues, engineered cord protectors, and humidity ports integrate directly with BlackBox vent systems, providing finished, professional enclosures without aftermarket modifications.
BlackBox enclosures support both traditional and bioactive setups and are often used in larger collections. Multiple door styles and ventilation configurations are available.
Apex Cages
Apex Reptile manufactures modular PVC enclosures designed for flexibility and scalability. Their panel-based system allows keepers to configure vertically oriented enclosures suitable for arboreal species while maintaining strong insulation and humidity retention. Apex enclosures are commonly used for long-term housing where environmental stability is a priority.
Best suited for: Modular vertical builds, PVC insulation, adaptable adult housing.
Camo Cages
Camo Cages produces straightforward PVC enclosures with an emphasis on durability and simplicity. Limited viewing panels help reduce environmental fluctuation and visual stress, making them a practical option for keepers prioritizing function over display. Customization options are more limited than some manufacturers, but construction is robust.
Best suited for: Simple, stable setups with reduced visual exposure.
Tamura Designs
Tamura Designs specializes in custom, handcrafted enclosures, offering bespoke dimensions and layouts. These enclosures are well suited for keepers with specific spatial requirements or those seeking tailored arboreal designs. Build quality and customization are the primary strengths.
Best suited for: Custom sizing, specialized arboreal layouts, unique installations.
Toad Ranch
Toad Ranch produces heavy-duty PVC and HDPE enclosures with an emphasis on long-term durability and structural integrity. Their enclosures are commonly selected for permanent adult housing and are available in both quick-ship and custom sizes suitable for arboreal species.
Best suited for: Permanent adult housing, thick-panel construction, long service life.
Disclaimer
The manufacturers listed on this page are provided strictly as informational examples of enclosure builders commonly used within the reptile-keeping community. Inclusion does not constitute endorsement, sponsorship, or a guarantee of suitability for any specific animal or husbandry approach.
Enclosure quality, ventilation design, material thickness, dimensions, and construction details vary by model and over time. Keepers are responsible for evaluating each enclosure on an individual basis to ensure it meets the biological and behavioral needs of Corallus caninus, including adequate vertical space, perch length, environmental stability, and safe access for maintenance.
Proper husbandry depends on how an enclosure is configured and managed, not solely on the manufacturer.