Common/Redtail Boa..are they the same?

Question
First off all are common boas and redtail boas the same snake?  As i keep finding different info that confuses me, also can they be housed together we have two possible males both a year old and would like to house them together if possible.

Answer
Hi Mandy

you're not alone, the difference between common boas and redtail boas does confuse people.

basically, there are 3 types of 'True Red-Tail Boas': Peruvian, Guyanan and Surinam. they are all fairly similar but have slightly different patterns. True Red-Tails will have a more reddy coloured saddle on the tail section, roughly from the cloaca downwards and will have a slightly pink tinge to them.

Common boas are simply a cross-breed, between two different types of True Red-Tail. (ie, Guyanan X Surinam, Guyanan X Peruvian, Peruvian X Surinam). Common boas have a more brown saddle to them on the tail section and lack the pink tinge.

Two males can be housed together, yes, so long as they are roughly the same size. But, i would advise against it, as it can cause stress between the two snakes which can put them off feeding - especially in breeding season. Males and females tend not to have this problem so much but it can still occur.

I hope this helps,

Andy