Housing corns please read.

[LindsayMarie]

I know I have asked this question a few times on other forums but I thought I would try here in hopes of a bigger response :)

I want to find enclosures to use for the reptile room that will last a lifetime and look nice! But still be in my budget! So, I was wondering what everyone else uses here to house their corns? I guess I would like to take a survey/poll. If you can say what type of housing you use and what you like and dislike about it that would be great!

I will be extremely greatful to whomever replies to this post ;) Its hard to make a big decision like this without feedback from others experience! Thank you, Lindsay

ps. The cages will be used to house all kinds of reptiles, but especially corns and bearded dragons.

[Katie]

I use rubbermaids and aspen shavings for my corns. I don't think this would work as well for lizards or more arboreal snakes though......

I like the rubbermaids because they're easy to clean, cheap, and plentiful. And it's pretty easy to build a rack system for use with rubbermaids. Oh, and the tops are easy to secure. I've seen them used for lizards a few times though. People had built like wire mesh dome tops for them to make them higher. I can't see this being big enough for a beardie though...

On the other hand, they're not exactly pretty and I'm constantly having to tell people "no, it's not cruel at all, yes they have enough space, yes she likes it in there, etc". People ask a TON of questions about them which is cool, it just gets a little old after awhile.

[Hope H]

I'm switching from tanks to rubbermaids as we speak. I found great rubbermaid containers that are the same size as 20 gallon long tanks. I'm building my racks today, already have the wood cut thanks to Lowes. So much lighter and easier to keep clean. I use news paper for my Balls and Aspen for my Corns. My rack is going to be 3' Wide and 5' High with 4 Shelves.:)

[Jr Nimeskern]

I also am using a rack system with rubbermaid sweater boxes... they are really easy to clean and you can house alot of corns in a single area... I use 10gal and 20gal for my corns that I have in quarantine! other then that I also use aspen for my substrate... like Katie said... this isnt exactly pretty but sometimes you have to sacrafice for quanity...

[Garrett__16]

I prefer my 20 gal aquarium. I don't like rubbermaids because I use a heat lamp and a nice fitting lid it hard to find for rubbermaids. Aquariums are superior.

[Elaphe_Mo]

I'm in the process of building a melamine rack for some rubbermaids right now. Tanks look nicer for a while but when you have 10 or more laying around your house, all of a sudden having one nice rack seems like a really good idea.

[Katie]

Well, like I said, rubbermaids are cheap and easy and the more money I save on enclosures the more corns I can have!!

[pdrau]

Just FYI, I am working on a design to use a commonly available building material as a framework for a rubbermaid rack. I am probably going to still use melamine as the shelving, but the rack will be adjustable and lighter weight. It will also be able to be taken apart for easier shipping. I'll keep everyone posted on my progress.

I'm currently using aquariums, but need to expand, so sterlite/rubbermaid containers are in the works.

Peter

[skylark711]

Peter, I look forward to hearing more about your rack design. As I move from apartment to apartment, this seems like a better route to go. Much Luck to you!

Shannon

[Jr Nimeskern]

Hey Peter forget that PM I just sent you... LOL... looks like you have everything under control I am also intrested in your new design as soon as your done... The rack I made is basic and its VERY HEAVY!!! but thats why I have a dolly...

[Matt L]

If your going to keep a large amount of snakes, a rack system is a must. I built my racks out of plywood, the rack for smaller snakes(up to 18") holds 60 containers(sterilite). The large rack holds 36 tubs, these will house adults. The melamie looks nice but it is sooo heavy and it's a pain to cut and drill. The large rack probably weighs 200 pounds so I installed casters on the bottom of both so I can move them if I need to. I also used pegboard on the back to help with ventalation.

[LindsayMarie]

It seems like racks are the most popular way to go! I guess my only questions now are is it best or easier to buy them through a company online? If I choose to make my own whats the best material (wood) and what exact rubbermaid or sterlite is best to use for both babies and adults? Thank you so much, Lindsay

[Matt L]

Lindsay Marie,
http://www.freedombreeder.com I use this company for mouse racks. They also offer reptile racks with many options. they are not exactly what I would call cheap, however the quality is very good.

[Hope H]

I just used 2 x 4's and plywood. I got casters so I can move it easily. I found the Rubbermaids tubs at Wallmart. I ended up with tubs that are 32"L x 13"W x 12"H for my adults. I just made a small setup that holds 8 for around $35.00. This weekend I'm working on a smaller setup for the babies I'm hoping to get at the show :)

[miamijuan3]

what kind of heating and lighting systems do you use for these racks. are the occupants viewable. i also live in an apartment with limited space. i would be very interested since my collection will be growing quickly. it would be nice to be able to see the snakes...

[Rhoman]

What size tubs do you guys use for your adult corns?
Rhoman