Plastic Tub Size

[Jackins]

So, I haven't started construction yet; but I have procured a sterilite plastic tub in preparation for a (hopefully soon) snake procurement.

However; I may have gone overboard.

I was going by tank sizes and wanted something that a future kingsnake could grow into and could maybe last all of two years.; The one that I picked up is a 116qt clear storage tote.

It is roughly on par with the size of a large Exo-Terra Terrarium.

The dimensions are: 33" L x 20 1/8" W x 13 1/2" H

Before I start modifying it, I wanted to know from others if I've gone completely overboard? As I haven't actually picked anyone up yet, and will not do so until I know that the tub is finished, I want to make sure I can accommodate just about anything. Can I compensate the extra size with more hides and and plants, or with the open space be way too much? I plan on covering the sides to give it a more enclosed feel, but if Need be I can return the tub now and work with something smaller.

Thank you for your input!

[Mikoh4792]

Big size is never a problem when there is enough cover and security. Your snake will be fine.

Just make sure to fill it up! Lots of hides, substrates that can be burrowed into...etc

[franks]

I believe it is fine. They survive without little boxes all over the country. Well first off, awesome choice! What kind of kingsnake are you looking at? If you put plenty of hides and fake vines so he can travel and bask feeling safe you will be fine. A deep soft substrate that he can easily get under will help considerably as well. Basically- if you can provide an environment where he does not have to "choose" between feeling secure and getting to his basking spot, or feeling secure and getting to his water dish, you will be ok. Personally, I keep all new snakes in a small tub on paper towels until they take 2 or 3 meals and defecate a few times but that is for me, so I can monitor them.

Make sure to keep a light cycle so your guy can come out at dark if he wants.

[Jackins]

I've been waffling between a striped Cali King and a Mexican Black King; the MBKs on the thread have been seriously tugging my interest, but finding any of these guys in VA seems like trying to pull teeth. Everyone seems to be more into the boas/pythons, or corns, which don't interest me as much. As for having one delivered; I'm not terribly sure who to go with. So far I've seen them listed on Reptmart, Serpentarium and Big Apple Herp. I'm not super comfortable with ordering my first snake from a large chain, but I can if it's the last option.

I'll be heading to two reptile expos in the coming months; one on the 19th, and another on the 23rd of August if the first doesn't pan out.

[franks]

I just got an MBK. They are awesome. Try kingsnake.com and fauna classifieds. You can buy directly from breeders on those two sites. I think you are wise to stay away from the chains like big apple herp etc. Your August reptile shows should definitely have a nice array of kings.

[Mikoh4792]

You can also join kingsnake groups on facebook and it should be easier to meet breeders that way.

[Jackins]

You can also join kingsnake groups on facebook and it should be easier to meet breeders that way.

So far I think I've found one breeder, but navigating Facebook is not something I'm super familiar with. Do you know of any off the top of your head that you'd recommend?

[Mikoh4792]

Not kingsnake breeders, sorry.

It's very easy to do. Just go to facebook and in the search bar type "kingsnake". A plethora of kingsnake groups should pop up. Maybe even classified pages and "sell your kingsnakes" groups.

[sharthun]

I've been waffling between a striped Cali King and a Mexican Black King; the MBKs on the thread have been seriously tugging my interest, but finding any of these guys in VA seems like trying to pull teeth. Everyone seems to be more into the boas/pythons, or corns, which don't interest me as much. As for having one delivered; I'm not terribly sure who to go with. So far I've seen them listed on Reptmart, Serpentarium and Big Apple Herp. I'm not super comfortable with ordering my first snake from a large chain, but I can if it's the last option.

I'll be heading to two reptile expos in the coming months; one on the 19th, and another on the 23rd of August if the first doesn't pan out.

Give Shane a shout he's a forum member and king snake breeder.

http://www.ssnakess.com/forums/breeding-incubation/104632-2014-projects.html

http://www.ssuperiorsserpents.com/home.html


He has some fantastic Kings!

[franks]

That is true Shane has some very nice snakes

[sharthun]

That is true Shane has some very nice snakes

Yep, I will have a hatchling female Eastern King on the way from him soon. :)

[Jackins]

Mmmk; so, I have more questions here that I'm hoping I can sort out.

I was reading the directions on the Flexiwatt (yes, I have a thermostat, if anyone is concerned) and they say not to to overlap the aluminum tape over the ends or bad things will happen.

What tape is safe to use with this heat tape? I don't want to attach it to the bottom of this tub and then find out that I've ruined it or just created an accident waiting to happen. :C