RUB set up advice for BP

[virtuousvixen]

There is a good possibility that in the next few weeks i am finally going to be getting my BP. I currently have a 3ft wooden viv set up, but because we don't have tons of space in our place at the moment i have been thinking about using a RUB set up until he gets bigger and we move into our new place early next year and the little guy gets bigger.

I have never set up a RUB. I think i have a good idea but i know a lot of you guys use them so i though it best to ask those of you with experience of using them and see if you can give me some pointers, and make sure i'm not missing anything. I (think) i have everything i need to do the set up like heat mat, stat, hides, bowl, decor, substrate etc. I don't have the RUB just yet. But am looking to go and buy it today. I'd really like to set it up this afternoon so i can have it running for a while before i bring the new addition home. So if anyone can suggest which size would be best it would be really helpful.

The BP was born on 03/04/14. I am currently talking with the guy to find out more details. But if everything falls into place and is good to go. I'd like to get the little guy in the next few weeks.

Big thanks in advance

[lady_bug87]

For something that small a 1' x 2' (30cm x 60cm) would be an appropriate size bin. You could go larger if you like but I personally prefer this size for small ball pythons.

Drill ventilation holes along the sides ensuring that though there is adequate air flow, humidity is being properly maintained. Start with a few holes and add as you see fit. Humidity should range between 60-80%.

As for substrate I recommend newpaper. Coco husk is also a viable option. Avoid substrates that are prone to mold such as aspen.

In terms of heating I set my hot side to 95°F (35°C) covering one third of the bottom.

As for hides, since the bins are translucent the snake doesn't see out of them as they do with glass so if the animal eats and does well without hides I don't bother adding them however you may choose to.

[virtuousvixen]

Thanks Lady Bug.

I am also assuming that with the UTH on the bottom of the RUB it's best to raise it so that the UTH isn't in direct contact with the surface it is sitting on. and to put the the stat and therm probes on the inside of the RUB directly on top of the UTH.

[lady_bug87]

Yep. Mat on the outside probe on the inside

[Cmwells90]

I also recommend coco husk for substrate. I've been using it for years and it's easy to clean, doesn't mold easily, and keeps the humidity level.

[virtuousvixen]

Thank you both, Rub is set up and plugged in. Currently warming up. So far we are hitting 29.7C and rising(at least i hope). Husk should be here tomorrow and just need to drill some holes along the side in the morning