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Screen on plastic lid?

Calift

Calift

0.1 addict
I'd like to build a nice tub for my garter, but it needs to be able to let light in. I was thinking of using a regular, large sterilite container and somehow cutting out a section of the side and replacing it thick mesh. I have left-over screen material (fabric?) from an older project to use, which is pretty tough. My question is what is the best way to attach it to the plastic? Glue? Secured with wood?
 
I would probably put nuts and bolts throught it at least every three inches, and then secure the edges with glue/tape (on the outside). Make sure you don't put the tape anywhere the snake could get into it, and any "sharp ends" should face out.
 
Hi we had a garter for 2.5 years and the very first thing we learned, the hard way I might add, is they are extremely strong and determined if they wish to escape. I am a part of another forum (strictly for garters) called http://www.thamnophis.com/ (the latin name for garter snakes) and there you will find a wealth of info on the husbandry of garters. The people there are just at friendly and helpful as on here.

Our garter escaped three times before we got a prefabed metal screened top with clips (mind you we were using an old aquarium, not a plastic tub). We also learned that the average garter snake can lift approx. 30 lbs with their heads.

My concern for you and your garter friend would be that fabric mesh may be weak enough for the snake to rip, if it applied enough pressure, esp if you decide to nut and bolt the screen to the top, because then it will already have weak spots.

As well, no offense meant Hypan, I personally would be concerned that the heads of the bolts may be a danger for the snake. If you did not find a way to completely cover them and it was persistently trying to find a way out, it may rub it's nose or cheek on one and injury itself.

My best advice use and aquarium and a metal screen top or join the above mentioned forum and check out some of the home made vivs they have used.

Tisha
 
I would probably stick with the plastic tub, they usually have much more slither space, and are a lil more economical... If you are worried about it getting sunlight and fresh air, you could always increase the amount of drill holes in one of the sides of the tub... small ones every 1/4 inch in a checkerboard pattern, this would allow your serpentine friend lots of light and fresh air with no real means of escape...You can also use a saudering (spelling?) iron to melt holes in the side if you uncomfortable with a drill. :) gl hun.
 
Thanks for the information.....and that great forum suggestion- I will certainly join (and probably keep this user name). I had no idea garters were so strong!

Here's what I've made so far: (though I think I should reinforce it all for security. It kept my girl enclosed for one night at least:noevil:)

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She is pretty and you are welcome about the forum info and such. I loved that forum for our garter and all the stuff we learned there ... there is a really nice member who helped me out a lot and if you look him up I am sure he will answer any questions you have guidofatherof5.. I will PM him and tell him your user name and tell him I sent you over!!:wavey:
 
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