Making enclosure for Red Tail Boa

Lichjen · 09-24-13, 08:24 PM

My husband is looking at making our female red tail's permanent enclosure. He was thinking of making it 6'x6"x3" is this a good size? or is it too big? We are going to want her to be happy and have good space.

If this is good we are going to be buying the plexiglass soon and get started on it. I also need to know what kind of wood or plastic to use to hold everything together. (We are also going to be putting a lock on the enclosure - she has a lock/key/chain right now)

I know when we move her at first she'll be shocked (she's 9 months almost 3 feet and almost a pound) but I am also not sure how long it will take to make it

BryanB · 09-24-13, 08:33 PM

I would go with something more like6x4x4 just so it would be easier to get in side and clean like is needed for a tank that size. I don't crouch all that well my back isn't the greatest.

LarryS · 09-25-13, 04:45 AM

Forum member Formica posted his DIY cage made from PVC with acrylic door recently.

It looks amazing, you may want to have a look.

http://www.ssnakess.com/forums/gener...enclosure.html

Even large enclosures can be done with PVC without structural issues provided certain design guidelines are incorporated.

Lichjen · 09-26-13, 10:14 PM

wow, it does look good! my husband looks confused as to how to make it LOL

and I made a mistake in measurement - he wants to make it 6'x3'x2'

formica · 09-27-13, 01:39 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lichjen

wow, it does look good! my husband looks confused as to how to make it LOL

and I made a mistake in measurement - he wants to make it 6'x3'x2'

thanks!

if you decide to go with PVCX, then I have seen recommendations for a minimum of 16mm thickness for larger enclosures (0.69inches, sorry i dont know the fraction!) to ensure the structure stays rigid - also PVCX is only suitable for heat mats and radient panels, and LED lighting, no halogen/ceramic/incadenscent heating or light should be used as PVCX melts @ 65C

Build pics always appriciated if you have time!

Caylan · 09-27-13, 01:15 AM

I consider 4x2x1 the minimum, and 6x3x2 would be even better! With boa's, you can't really go too big. You may find the 3 feet deep kinda overkill, generally I reserve that for larger snakes, 2 feet is ample. However, your snake will use the cage space if offered, so it won't go to waste, and shouldn't stress the animal out at all. Best of luck with the build, I'd love to see pictures when it's done!