Hi all,

I am currently located in the UK ( Scotland to be precise ) and have been asked by an animal handling company I have done some work for ( Creature Feature ) for help sourcing a 10 foot plus Boa constrictor to be used onstage in Switzerland.

Since I neither speak the language nor have any knowlege of the state of the hobby over there this is proving problematic.

I was wondering if you could give me some recommendations on people and places to ask or even shops that have such an animal for sale?

Are there any specific legal requirements he should be aware of?

Many thanks in advance for any help you feel able to give.


Derek Anderson

I'm sorry I also would have no idea where to get such a thing! There is a chain of pet stores called QualiPet (www.qualipet.ch) which has a reptile section but i don't think they would have anything suitable for you.
i think you should rename your thread something about Searching for a Snake though, so that more people might look at it. Just a suggestion!

If you're looking to buy one, what do you expect to do with it once the stage show is finished?

I would be interested, before I attempt to offer assistance in sourcing one.

You will undoubtedly require the help of a French/German/Italian speaker in your quest - depending on the area of Switzerland where it is required - which would help narrow the search.

Also be aware that using an animal for a show would likely fall under 'Gewerbmässighandlung' - the animal welfare law strictly regulates care, handling, and living conditions for commercial use of living creatures.

I would suggest that you first have a chat with the BVET and learn about the welfare requirements before you source your snake.

What kind of stage show needs a 10 foot human killer snake? I want to see it!

Too late. That was last year.