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HOUSING
- Thread starter luke
- Start date
jakethesnake001
New member
I like that idea!
CAV
Dazed and Cornfused
Sorry I missed the fireworks earlier!
That is the last time I go to a Herp show and risk missing such great dialog!
OK lets step back for a second. First, plastic doen't equal bare essentials. I have 42 in tubs and one in a 30 gallon glass. Each one has a ceramic bowl, a 1/2 log hide (that functions both as a climbing toy and shelter) and substrate. I personally don't use paper towel, but instead use Repti-Bark and Aspen. All of this is my personal choice as the keeper.
The snakes on the other hand, show zero interest. I am currently switching between bark and aspen to see which one is preferred. Results? They both work and the snakes don't care. I have rotated several snakes through the glass set-up, and I have only experienced problems with the snake in the aquarium. They are more nervous, less active and have more difficulty in shedding. Bmm is correct, the ventilation is worse in the aquariums versus the plastic tubs. This is because the only ventilation available is out the top. This creates a drier environment since water vapor is removed through excessive evaporation. I have humidity gauges throughout my set-ups and monitor this condition daily.
As far as size. I have several tubs that hold more than 30 gallons (inside volume). They exceed 15" in height. They even make some big enough to house some adult boas and pythons.
Jake, I understand your pref for the glass enclosures. That is fine and I respect your choice. But realize that unlike yourself, other keepers have tried several methods and through observation and critical analysis have made a different choice. Notice I didn't say better, just different. If we all had the same methods and practicies, we wouldn't need a forum to share new ideas and techniques.
Just my .02
That is the last time I go to a Herp show and risk missing such great dialog!
OK lets step back for a second. First, plastic doen't equal bare essentials. I have 42 in tubs and one in a 30 gallon glass. Each one has a ceramic bowl, a 1/2 log hide (that functions both as a climbing toy and shelter) and substrate. I personally don't use paper towel, but instead use Repti-Bark and Aspen. All of this is my personal choice as the keeper.
The snakes on the other hand, show zero interest. I am currently switching between bark and aspen to see which one is preferred. Results? They both work and the snakes don't care. I have rotated several snakes through the glass set-up, and I have only experienced problems with the snake in the aquarium. They are more nervous, less active and have more difficulty in shedding. Bmm is correct, the ventilation is worse in the aquariums versus the plastic tubs. This is because the only ventilation available is out the top. This creates a drier environment since water vapor is removed through excessive evaporation. I have humidity gauges throughout my set-ups and monitor this condition daily.
As far as size. I have several tubs that hold more than 30 gallons (inside volume). They exceed 15" in height. They even make some big enough to house some adult boas and pythons.
Jake, I understand your pref for the glass enclosures. That is fine and I respect your choice. But realize that unlike yourself, other keepers have tried several methods and through observation and critical analysis have made a different choice. Notice I didn't say better, just different. If we all had the same methods and practicies, we wouldn't need a forum to share new ideas and techniques.
Just my .02
i`m enjoying this clash of ideas , partly cos i can see the benefits of both.
my prefference is for the natural look but that can be acheived under both glass or plastic.. i went with glass solely because i had an old fish tank lying around
i could be tempted to go with something like those rubbermaids for my next encloure mostly because of the venting/humidity thing. Humidty is something i`ve had difficulty with - i don`t have a guage but my snake has had some difficulty with sheds, (more so the first one... i started to learn more hints and tips by the time of the second) and so i`ve added a second waterdish right above the heat mat and also added more rocks and of course, the mug tree.
One thing i have noticed... my snake LOVES having paper towls in the tank because she can go and hide underneath them! Personnally i like to use natural looking substrates but i dont think my snake really cares too much......she`s healthy though and thats the important thing.
my prefference is for the natural look but that can be acheived under both glass or plastic.. i went with glass solely because i had an old fish tank lying around
i could be tempted to go with something like those rubbermaids for my next encloure mostly because of the venting/humidity thing. Humidty is something i`ve had difficulty with - i don`t have a guage but my snake has had some difficulty with sheds, (more so the first one... i started to learn more hints and tips by the time of the second) and so i`ve added a second waterdish right above the heat mat and also added more rocks and of course, the mug tree.
One thing i have noticed... my snake LOVES having paper towls in the tank because she can go and hide underneath them! Personnally i like to use natural looking substrates but i dont think my snake really cares too much......she`s healthy though and thats the important thing.
bmm
New member
jakethesnake001 I have no problems with my husbandry and considering my snakes are feeding, growing and breeding, I don't think they do either. Although I do have problems reading posts by people who cannot properly comprhend what someone else is writing, have no proof or even experience to back up their claims, and who act as if they are some sort of corn master when in fact they don't even understand simple, and I mean SIMPLE corn/snake behaviours.
DONE.
Bmm
DONE.
Bmm
bmm
New member
I like this example:
Your in a car that has a sunroof. You need some fresh air. Imagine all the windows rolled up and then opening the sun roof. Some air comes in but nothing in comparision to the amount of air that gets in if you roll down two windows on opposite sides of the car.
Its simple, really.
bmm
Your in a car that has a sunroof. You need some fresh air. Imagine all the windows rolled up and then opening the sun roof. Some air comes in but nothing in comparision to the amount of air that gets in if you roll down two windows on opposite sides of the car.
Its simple, really.
bmm
jakethesnake001
New member
I realize what you are all saying. I too am considering rubbermaids. people are blowing things out of proportion. As bmm says, its for my own feelings, not the snakes well being. Im sorry if i offended you in any way, i think that it is for my own personal enjoyment, as well as the snakes. I enjoy looking at a natural looking terrarium, and i realized that that isn't important to some of you. I enjoy seeing my snake climb through branches, under the soil, through rock crevices etc. I do realize that those things are not important to some snake keepers, and i am witness to the very HIGH cost. I also think that it can benefit the snake though too. I dont think that we should be criticizing each other , but rather respect and admire how each care for their herps. I was looking at some of those plastics on www.boaphileplastics.com , but they were a few hundred dollars, which is about the same as some aquarium. Anyone know of any places where cheaper ones could be found, because i am quite inclined to take a look at them.I do realize they have many advantages. I tried to move my terrarium today to a different location. NO EASY TASK!!! I must say that these plastics do sound kind of intriguing.
CAV
Dazed and Cornfused
Best rack available.....
...are the ones you make yourself!
I made this one for less than $150 including lights, heat tape, and tubs. Everything but the Helix thermostat. The shelves hold either 24 sweater boxes or 12 blanket boxes.
I have another that is temporary that I made from 1x2" pine that cost less than $60.
...are the ones you make yourself!
I made this one for less than $150 including lights, heat tape, and tubs. Everything but the Helix thermostat. The shelves hold either 24 sweater boxes or 12 blanket boxes.
I have another that is temporary that I made from 1x2" pine that cost less than $60.
Attachments
CowBoyWay
Cocked & Unlocked member
Gotta nice rack there...
and I ain't talking about your wife
Clear Storage Box
Rubbermaid
Multiple sizes offer a variety of great storage applications. All units stack, filling previously unused storage space. See-through clarity provides easy content identification. Lids fit securely and are easy-to-grip when carrying. Clear with white lids.
No. 2220: 3 gallon, 16" x 11" x 6"
No. 2221: 7 gallon, 23.01" x 16.75" x 6"
No. 2222: 4.9 gallon, 16" x 11" x 9"
No. 2223: 11 gallon, 23.01" x 16.75" x 9"
shop around for the best prices. Super,colossal mega "mart" stores usually have them pretty inexpensive i.e. cheap
http://doitbest.com/shop/product.as...TFK2K59XLC&mbrid=4724&dept_id=2194&sku=619086
Some keepers prefer the more opaque, less clarity, style of tubs.
I have grown found of Rubbermaids new line of "Snap-topper" style of latch locking tubs.
These are good, free standing, latchable lid type units.
and I ain't talking about your wife
Clear Storage Box
Rubbermaid
Multiple sizes offer a variety of great storage applications. All units stack, filling previously unused storage space. See-through clarity provides easy content identification. Lids fit securely and are easy-to-grip when carrying. Clear with white lids.
No. 2220: 3 gallon, 16" x 11" x 6"
No. 2221: 7 gallon, 23.01" x 16.75" x 6"
No. 2222: 4.9 gallon, 16" x 11" x 9"
No. 2223: 11 gallon, 23.01" x 16.75" x 9"
shop around for the best prices. Super,colossal mega "mart" stores usually have them pretty inexpensive i.e. cheap
http://doitbest.com/shop/product.as...TFK2K59XLC&mbrid=4724&dept_id=2194&sku=619086
Some keepers prefer the more opaque, less clarity, style of tubs.
I have grown found of Rubbermaids new line of "Snap-topper" style of latch locking tubs.
These are good, free standing, latchable lid type units.
CowBoyWay
Cocked & Unlocked member
I learned a new word today...
"anthropomorphize"
(an.thro.po.mor.phize) is to ascribe human features to something.
So a anthropomorphist is:
One who attributes human attributes...to anything not human.
People tend to do that with their pets, no matter what the species. So I'm guessing that my Snakes sense of humor is apparently in my imagination. i.e. (How many snake keepers does it take to screw in a light bulb...Why did the snake keeper cross the road...to get to the other herp.) hehe
Those Helix thermostats seems to be a popular choice for top quality rack units.
http://helixcontrols.com/prod_basicsystem.htm
http://helixcontrols.com/prod_dbs1000.htm
Some of the fancier versions of the Helix thermostats can have a little unit attached that will record high and low temps, give a day and night temperature variance, and even have alarms!
Here's incubator design that uses helix equipment.
http://www.boakingdom.com/incubator.html
Pretty Spiffy product.
"anthropomorphize"
(an.thro.po.mor.phize) is to ascribe human features to something.
So a anthropomorphist is:
One who attributes human attributes...to anything not human.
People tend to do that with their pets, no matter what the species. So I'm guessing that my Snakes sense of humor is apparently in my imagination. i.e. (How many snake keepers does it take to screw in a light bulb...Why did the snake keeper cross the road...to get to the other herp.) hehe
Those Helix thermostats seems to be a popular choice for top quality rack units.
http://helixcontrols.com/prod_basicsystem.htm
http://helixcontrols.com/prod_dbs1000.htm
Some of the fancier versions of the Helix thermostats can have a little unit attached that will record high and low temps, give a day and night temperature variance, and even have alarms!
Here's incubator design that uses helix equipment.
http://www.boakingdom.com/incubator.html
Pretty Spiffy product.
Last edited:
AggieTiff
Cornstar
You can also get small units from places like Radioshack that display the current temps in and out of the snake enclosure, as well as the humidity. With only the push of a button, the highs and lows for those three as well can be checked. Buying those can save ya a buck or two instead of getting the really fancy upgraded Helix thermostats .
I have one and it works great. I also use a basic Helix thermostat, and together, these two gadgets pretty much cover all the bases as far as climatic conditions for the critters in the racks. I'd definitley recommend them to anyone. If you have a bunch of snakes, they are definitely worth the money.
.I have one and it works great. I also use a basic Helix thermostat, and together, these two gadgets pretty much cover all the bases as far as climatic conditions for the critters in the racks. I'd definitley recommend them to anyone. If you have a bunch of snakes, they are definitely worth the money.
AWESOME RACK CAV!!!!
CAV...I just wanted to compliment you on such a fine rack system! I can not believe you did all that for 150 dollars! I paid 200 for a tiny system from boaphile plastics, and was thinking about getting a larger system for over 300 dollars, but it would still not be as nice as yours. Did you make your own plans for that system? Care to share the wealth? I would love to attempt to build that system for half of what I was going to pay. I only have 4 snakes right now....1 large adult female just over 5 feet, and 2 adult males....almost 4 feet and growing, and 1 juvenile about 18". I have 11 hatchlings on the way, and I may end up keeping most of them. I currently have a shoebox rack system from boaphile that holds 10 shoebox size rubbermaids. I keep my juveinlie in there, and of course the hatchlings will go in there too, but I want to get my adults out of their tanks, and into a rack system. Much more convenient!! Thanks for a reply! -Don
CAV...I just wanted to compliment you on such a fine rack system! I can not believe you did all that for 150 dollars! I paid 200 for a tiny system from boaphile plastics, and was thinking about getting a larger system for over 300 dollars, but it would still not be as nice as yours. Did you make your own plans for that system? Care to share the wealth? I would love to attempt to build that system for half of what I was going to pay. I only have 4 snakes right now....1 large adult female just over 5 feet, and 2 adult males....almost 4 feet and growing, and 1 juvenile about 18". I have 11 hatchlings on the way, and I may end up keeping most of them. I currently have a shoebox rack system from boaphile that holds 10 shoebox size rubbermaids. I keep my juveinlie in there, and of course the hatchlings will go in there too, but I want to get my adults out of their tanks, and into a rack system. Much more convenient!! Thanks for a reply! -Don
CAV
Dazed and Cornfused
Tell ya what.....
I have had several emails about this topic. In order to keep this thread from getting grossly out of hand, I'll start another thread.
Here is the link:
http://www.cornsnakes.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=6027
I have had several emails about this topic. In order to keep this thread from getting grossly out of hand, I'll start another thread.
Here is the link:
http://www.cornsnakes.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=6027
Last edited:
Rachel
Vet nurse in training!
Just thought that I'd add my bit.... jake, I guess you have figured out what rubbermaids are (tupperware). If you have a pound stretcher or nickle & dime store near you that where you can get them cheap (or B&Q etc etc). Ask your mum, she'll know!
I try to keep my snakes in a tank that's big enough length mays for them to stretch out fully and I personally think that should be the minimum size to keep them in if you can afford the space.
I keep mine in rubbermaids (just about to sell old aquarium and move Pretz into one soon). They are SO much easier to keep clean! I have just about done my back in trying to heave a heavy glass viv to the bathroom so I can clean it out! The rubbermaids I have have clip lock lids (v. important) and are about 1.5 foot high (less so for the young snake who has smaller tank. I even got cheap plastic plants from pound stretcher to 'brighten' up the tank. Snakes seem very happy, much more so than being in their previous glass viv!
I try to keep my snakes in a tank that's big enough length mays for them to stretch out fully and I personally think that should be the minimum size to keep them in if you can afford the space.
I keep mine in rubbermaids (just about to sell old aquarium and move Pretz into one soon). They are SO much easier to keep clean! I have just about done my back in trying to heave a heavy glass viv to the bathroom so I can clean it out! The rubbermaids I have have clip lock lids (v. important) and are about 1.5 foot high (less so for the young snake who has smaller tank. I even got cheap plastic plants from pound stretcher to 'brighten' up the tank. Snakes seem very happy, much more so than being in their previous glass viv!
Michael said:
Mine doesn't even touch the branch for shedding.
He does climb on it for a little bit when he is out cruising at night but he wouldn't miss it if I took it away. Basically he uses it to see if he can get out.
As for my two cents about the discussion. I like the look of a decorated, clear glass tank. But I would hesitate calling keeping a snake indoors and in a cage natural. No matter how many rocks and branches you put inside the container.
There are very few places where reptibark of pine shavings cover the ground outside, none of them natural.
As for happy snakes, hygiene goes a very long way and in the end it is easier to keep a clean cage when it's made of plastic so you can bang it around putting some elbow into the scrubbing and has bedding you can change quickly at practically no cost or effort.
I'm not saying you can't keep a tank clean but a rubbermade with them rounded edges is easier.
I don't know about yours but mine spends 90% of his time sitting under his natural bark, by his natural branch looking all natural and never knowing the difference