Dry burrowing soil?

[boosh96]

What's the best way to make a dry substrate mix that holds a burrow? I'm thinking about getting an Ornate uromastyx and I want the little guy to have an opportunity to burrow if he wants. Now, do uromastyx need a bone-dry substrate or do they need a little extra humidity in their burrows?

[smy_749]

I just came from uromastyx habitat, and had the opportunity to dig out some burrows. Granted they were probably Egyptian uro burrows or V. griseus, ornates are also farmed and believed to be found in some parts of Jordan / Egypt as well. What I found was red sand burrows, the first 6 - 12 inches was fine grain sand, and as you got deeper it turned into a sort of hard rock/ sand stone. These burrows were so elaborate and deep however, that If I had to guess, I would say the area they covered was 5 x 5 with multiple entrances, and deeper than the recommended 2 feet for large burrowing species for sure. Without a doubt, the closest thing on the market that I have seen readily available is that burrowing clay substrate with the uromastyx on the picture

[smy_749]

check this thread and you can see some of the burrows I'm talking about.

http://www.ssnakess.com/forums/general-discussion/102622-went-herping-failed.html

[boosh96]

Think I could try mixing the excavator clay with topsoil and sand?