cwburns32
06-04-16, 02:49 PM
Still deciding on what type of snake to go with. I have narrowed it down to a ball python or smaller boa. I have considered a CA boa (not Colombian) or a Meixican boa (Sonora, Tarahumara). I know the later will be harder to come by. I like the idea of the more curious, adventurous boa vs the more lax BP plus it sounds like boas might be better eaters. I know the enclosure and it's essentials are going to be highly dependent on the snake I decide to buy but thought I'd get my enclosure up and running with temps etc before I order/go pick my snake up from the local reptile show.
I don't mind spending the money on making sure my reptiles feel safe and are happy. I have been really digging what I am seeing on Boaphile Plastics and the options they offer. Does anyone have any experience with them? I always can go the clear tub route DYI. But had some general questions about enclosures before I dove in to either.
- It sounds like RHP+thermostat are the best way to go in heating the enclosure if sized properly? If not what is most preferred method?
- As for light for viewing purposes is it more personal preference or are there added benefits to incandescent vs fluorescent?
- Will a 36" L x 24" D x 18" H enclosure be large enough for a fully grown ball python or a fully grown smaller male boa? If I am going to spend the money up front I'd like to do it on an enclosure that is large enough for it's entire life. I understand you don't want to get too large of an enclosure for smaller snakes but thought I would ask as that is the dimensions I am thinking of going with.
- I assume a gradient of temps with warm and cool side. Hides on both sides. Have heard mixed thoughts on water dish placement?
- What is preferred substrate? However, I am sure this is heavily dependent on snake.
- Have hard mixed thoughts on whether or not to feed in separate enclosure. If this is recommended, what type of enclosure?
Sorry for the long winded post...just trying to be as thorough as I possibly can in prepping for my new snake. I have exactly 2 weeks until the next reptile show. Any recommendations on snakes are more than welcome :) I love the active, adventurous type but as a first time owner need a snake that is easier to care for and fairly easy to handle. I don't mind the nippiness of the young boas ;)
I don't mind spending the money on making sure my reptiles feel safe and are happy. I have been really digging what I am seeing on Boaphile Plastics and the options they offer. Does anyone have any experience with them? I always can go the clear tub route DYI. But had some general questions about enclosures before I dove in to either.
- It sounds like RHP+thermostat are the best way to go in heating the enclosure if sized properly? If not what is most preferred method?
- As for light for viewing purposes is it more personal preference or are there added benefits to incandescent vs fluorescent?
- Will a 36" L x 24" D x 18" H enclosure be large enough for a fully grown ball python or a fully grown smaller male boa? If I am going to spend the money up front I'd like to do it on an enclosure that is large enough for it's entire life. I understand you don't want to get too large of an enclosure for smaller snakes but thought I would ask as that is the dimensions I am thinking of going with.
- I assume a gradient of temps with warm and cool side. Hides on both sides. Have heard mixed thoughts on water dish placement?
- What is preferred substrate? However, I am sure this is heavily dependent on snake.
- Have hard mixed thoughts on whether or not to feed in separate enclosure. If this is recommended, what type of enclosure?
Sorry for the long winded post...just trying to be as thorough as I possibly can in prepping for my new snake. I have exactly 2 weeks until the next reptile show. Any recommendations on snakes are more than welcome :) I love the active, adventurous type but as a first time owner need a snake that is easier to care for and fairly easy to handle. I don't mind the nippiness of the young boas ;)