
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Eryx colubrinus
A small boa living buried in sand. Gentle and space-efficient beginner snake.
The Kenyan sand boa (Gongylophis colubrinus), also called the Egyptian sand boa, is a small, burrowing boa native to arid and semi-arid regions of East Africa, including Kenya, Tanzania, Egypt, Ethiopia, and Sudan. Adults typically reach 40–70 cm, with females considerably larger than males. The body is stout and cylindrical, and the blunt tail is used to anchor the snake while it bursts from the substrate to seize prey. Coloration is typically orange or yellow with brown saddle blotches. Kenyan sand boas are highly docile, rarely bite, and can be housed in compact enclosures with a deep sand substrate that allows burrowing. A hot spot of around 35°C and a cool side of 25°C are recommended. Their small size, gentle temperament, and ease of care make them one of the most recommended beginner snakes.
Origin
East Africa (Kenya, Egypt, Ethiopia, Sudan and surrounding regions)
Lifespan
15-20 years
Size
40-70cm
Temperature
25〜32℃
Humidity
40〜70%
Mice
Small cage with sand substrate
ケニアンサンドボアの流通の中心はアルビノ・アネリ・スノーといった劣性モルフ。ストライプ(共優性)やニュークリア(赤の強い系統)などのライン累代個体も出回るが、出品者により遺伝様式の表記が揺れる点に注意。
Sources: Reptiles Magazine - Breeder's Choice (Kenyan Sand Boa) / A-Z Animals - Sand Boa Morphs (20+ Types)
A curated selection of notable morphs. Inheritance modes are a breeding-planning guide; actual appearance varies with combos.
Edited & verified by: br-choku editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Eryx colubrinus (Linnaeus, 1758)
Synonyms: Anguis colubrina Linnaeus, 1758, Eryx loveridgei Stull, 1932, Eryx rufescens Ahl, 1933, Eryx thebaicus Reuss, 1834, Eryx thebaicus loveridgei Stull, 1932, Gongylophis colubrinus (Linnaeus, 1758)
Authority databases: GBIF · Reptile Database
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Sources: CITES Checklist (Boidae spp. Appendix II; Gongylophis colubrinus) / IUCN Red List
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Find listings for this species
Hot spot 35°C, cool side 25°C
Small mouse every 2 weeks
Usually hidden buried in sand
Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.
The ideal temperature for Kenyan Sand Boa is 25〜32℃. Recommended humidity is 40〜70%. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Kenyan Sand Boa is 15-20 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Kenyan Sand Boa typically reaches 40-70cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Kenyan Sand Boa feeds on: Mice. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Kenyan Sand Boa varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 23, 2026