new snake owner and new here

mattd · 01-14-17, 10:34 PM

fish tank or plastic cage ?

eminart · 01-15-17, 07:51 AM

Either as long as they're set up correctly.

Jim Smith · 01-15-17, 08:41 AM

To some extent, it depends on which species of snake you choose. For species that require higher humidity, a fish tank can be much harder to regulate, especially with a top that is open to the air. Also, I find that plastic cages with front opening doors look better, are easier to control temperatures and humidity and are much easier to maintain. It wouldbe helpful if you shared which species of snank you plan on getting if you want more specifics.

**EL Ziggy** · 01-15-17, 09:53 AM

I agree with the other members. I've used tanks, tubs, and pvc enclosures successfully depending on the species. Most of my snakes are in pvc display enclosures now because I prefer the aesthetics, their light weight, and the fact that I can stack them.

PatrickV · 01-15-17, 11:24 AM

i use plastic bins in a racking system. easy to clean, keep humidity well, stackable. fish tank with mesh top was causing harm to my boa who would rub her nose on it at night to the point of bleeding

mattd · 01-15-17, 04:12 PM

i went with pvc tank 4x2 feet i like it seems better for the snake. Have a juvi ball python and i cant wait till here next shed in her knew home. had her 2 months and my heads been spinning on how much info i read and the difference in many peoples views and opinions . i thought from a kid that just threw a snake in a tank and walk away. was i wrong lol but my 12 year daughter begged for it and i enjoy it my self.

Jim Smith · 01-15-17, 04:58 PM

Careful, Matt, that's how I got hooked again. I bought a Pueblan Milk Snake for my oldest grandson and kept it in my man cave for a couple of weeks until his birthday. I kept snakes as a kid, but only wild caught and I always let them go after a couple of weeks. Let us know when the urge strikes you to get your very own snake

**EL Ziggy** · 01-15-17, 05:04 PM

Good choice Matt. The pvc enclosures are great at holding temps and humidity. They look really nice too if you want to display your snake.
I totally agree with Jim about kids being a gateway to snake keeping. My son wanted a blue lizard for his first pet. We didn't find a lizard that day but a California King snake caught my eye. Now it's 8 snakes later and I'm still fighting the urge for more.

mattd · 01-15-17, 06:36 PM

its night here and my temps are 75 to 79 . day temps 84 to 79 i think i want them three degrees higher. with pvc its hard for temps. i securely put a large heat lamp 2 feet above cage for day and night. but are there any other ideas how to get temps up three degrees. o bye the way im fighting another snake itch my enclosure has a divider. o.o too have my body to be covered to get rid of the tat itch. wish me luck

mattd · 01-15-17, 06:38 PM

i have a ball python btw