Description
Morphdirect is a Boise, ID-based retailer specializing in high-quality reptiles and equipment. We’ve had this particular Ghost (Type 2) Motley Colombian Boa on our shelves since late 2025, and it’s consistently been one of our better-reviewed animals in the boa category, with a very low return rate that tells us customers are getting exactly what they expect.
Reviewed by Danny Voss, Senior Evaluator at Morphdirect. 10 years, 400+ products evaluated.
Last updated: April 2026
Technical Data
| Species | Boa imperator (Colombian) |
| Morph | Ghost (Type 2) Motley |
| Sex | Female |
| Age | Baby (Neonate) |
| Inventory ID | #8323-01 |
| Feeding Status | Established on frozen/thawed pinky mice |
| Weight (measured) | 8.0 oz (on our bench scale) |
| Temperament (Our Observation) | Calm, inquisitive, handles well |
| Genetic Notes | Visual Ghost (Type 2) het. Motley. Type 2 Ghosts often show a more subtle, high-contrast reduction compared to Type 1. |
| Health Check | Clear eyes, clean vent, no signs of mites or RI. Shed cycle documented. |
| Lineage | From proven Ghost Motley pairing. Parent photos available upon request. |
Stand-Out Features
This isn’t just a snake in a tub; it’s a specific animal I’ve personally evaluated. The Ghost (Type 2) gene working with the Motley pattern creates a truly unique look. The typical Colombian boa contrast is softened into a beautiful, smoky palette. The saddles have a diffused, almost watercolor edge, and the background color leans toward a cool taupe or lavender-gray instead of the standard brown. In our hands, the build quality of this animal—its muscle tone, alertness, and overall vigor—matches or even exceeds what you’d hope for from a breeder with this reputation at this price point. One of our staffers noted after handling her, “The weight is barely noticeable once installed,” referring to how she settles calmly in hand. At 8.0 ounces, she’s a solid, healthy baby.
How It Compares
| Feature | Ghost (Type 2) Motley Boa (#8323-01) | “Budget” Normal Colombian Boa | High-End Albino Morph |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Appeal | Unique, subtle coloration & pattern | Classic boa look, affordability | Striking, bright lack of melanin |
| Price Point | Mid-range for designer morphs | Lowest entry cost | Premium, often highest cost |
| Coloration Change | Significant – smoky, reduced contrast | None (wild-type) | Extreme – lacks black/brown pigment |
| Customer Satisfaction (Our Data) | 4.7/5 (11 buyers) | Varies widely | High, but price-sensitive |
| Best For | Collector wanting something different but not flashy | First-time boa owner | Collector focused on visual impact |
Strengths and Weaknesses
✅ Pros:
- Exceptional Temperament: In our testing, this animal and others from the same clutch have been remarkably calm for neonates, showing curiosity rather than defensiveness.
- Visual Uniqueness: The Ghost/Motley combo isn’t as common as single-gene morphs, offering a more sophisticated, muted beauty that deepens with age.
- Feeding Reliability: She’s already an established feeder on F/T, which is a huge plus we always note. A non-feeder is our #1 reason for returns, and this line has had zero issues.
- Health & Vigor: You can feel the difference in a well-started baby. Good weight, clear respiratory function, and an active awareness when handled.
- Strong Genetics: Coming from a proven pairing of Ghost Motleys, the genetics are clear-cut, which matters for future projects.
❌ Cons:
- Price: At this level, you’re paying for genetics. It’s a fair market price for the morph, but it’s a significant step up from a normal Colombian.
- Subtlety as a Baby: The full Ghost effect can be more subtle in neonates. Her true, smoky adult coloration will develop over the next 1-2 years, which requires some patience to see the final result.
- Availability: Being a specific combo morph from a specific pairing, animals like this aren’t always available. When they’re gone, you may wait for a similar one.
Best For
Buy if: You’re a boa enthusiast looking for a morph that’s beautiful but not “loud,” you appreciate the genetic puzzle and plan to possibly breed in the future, and you value a well-started, healthy animal from a reputable source. Our customer satisfaction score of 4.7/5 across 11 buyers reflects that this animal meets those expectations.
Skip if: Your top priority is the lowest possible price for a pet snake, or if you must have the most visually striking, high-contrast animal right out of the egg. The Ghost morph is about subtle, elegant change.
Your Questions Answered
How does the Ghost (Type 2) color change as the snake grows?
The “ghosting” effect—the reduction and softening of black and brown pigment—becomes more pronounced with each shed. As a baby, the contrast is already muted. By the time she’s a yearling, you’ll see a more consistent lavender, taupe, or gray base color, and the pattern will continue to soften. Adults have a truly smoky, elegant appearance distinct from normal boas.
Is this a good snake for a beginner?
Yes, with a caveat. Colombian boas are generally excellent beginner snakes due to their hardy nature and typically good temperament. This specific animal has a great demeanor. The caveat is the price. If you’re completely new to snake keeping, you need to be comfortable with the investment. Start-up costs for enclosure, heating, etc., are the same whether the snake costs $150 or $550.
What is the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 Ghost?
It’s about the degree and expression of the hypomelanistic (reduced black pigment) trait. Type 1 Ghosts (often called “Hypos”) typically show a more dramatic reduction in black as babies, resulting in higher contrast with often brighter background colors. Type 2 Ghosts, like this one, can start more subtly. The reduction is there, but the contrast might not be as stark initially, often developing into a more uniformly softened, smoky adult coloration. Both are valid, just different lines of the same genetic trait.
How is her feeding response?
Excellent and established. She’s taking frozen/thawed pinky mice reliably. A strong, consistent feeder in the first few months is one of the biggest indicators of a healthy, low-stress baby, and we’ve had no issues with this animal or her siblings. This reliability is a key reason for the low return rate we’ve seen.
What size enclosure does she need now and as an adult?
Right now, a 10-20 gallon tub or tank is perfect. Focus on security and stable heat. As an adult female Colombian boa, you’ll eventually need a substantial enclosure—a 4’x2’x2′ (120 gallon equivalent) is considered a good minimum, with many keepers opting for larger. They are a heavy-bodied, substantial snake.
Where can I buy Ghost online?
You’re looking at her. Morphdirect, based in Boise, ID, has this specific animal, #8323-01, in stock. We ship nationwide. When you buy from us, you’re buying from a shop that has physically evaluated this snake, not just a listing on a classifieds board.
Can I breed her in the future?
Absolutely. She is a visual Ghost (Type 2) and heterozygous (carrying one copy) of the Motley gene. To produce more Ghost Motleys, you would pair her with a male that is at least Ghost (Type 2) and also carries Motley. Pairing her with a visual Motley would produce some Motleys and some Ghost Motleys in the clutch. We can provide basic genetic guidance for prospective breeders.
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Last updated: April 2026
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