Help with baby bull setup

Kaianuanu · 09-26-13, 12:33 AM

So I decided on a baby bull snake and I want to start getting my setup ready, I decided since I already have my two carpet pythons in display setups, I would try to go with a really economical housing for my bull since it won't really be a display animal. Since I will be getting a 2013 baby, I went out and got a 16.5"L x 13"W x 6.5"H 15qt Sterlite tub. I don't have a lot of experience with keeping animals in tubs like this. I can figure out the cage decor, like the water bowl, hides and etcetera, and I'll probably go with aspen or paper towels for the substrate. I also figured I'd melt a row of holes on the sides for ventilation with a soldering iron. However, what I'm not sure about is the best way to heat the cage. I live in Florida and my house usually stays at 80 degrees with a humidity around 40%. Should a simple small heat pad do the trick? Also, I have my fish room which is around 83-84 degrees and has slightly higher humidity which I could also put the in, would I even need heating in there?

Terranaut · 09-26-13, 04:48 PM

Go with aspen for burrowing. You need a very small heat pad and a thermostat so you don't melt the tub. You'll love your bull. If I may suggest something...when you wish to handle it...just pop the tub and grab it. Pituophis will become a bit defensive if they have time to consider you a threat. If they hiss or shake their tale you just grab them instantly. Waiting encourages pit behavior.
Enjoy. Awesome snakes to own.

**EL Ziggy** · 09-26-13, 07:38 PM

Hey guys. I'm considering adding a bull to my collection. I think they have similar heat and humidity requirements as my kings. How larger do they tend to get and is there someplace you'd recommend buying one? They don't have many different morphs do they? Thanks for the info.

Starbuck · 09-26-13, 08:16 PM

El-ziggy, not many morphs i am aware of, but lots of species and locales (albino is a pretty common color variant).
Species determines size, northern pines dont get as big as say, Mexican pines (i had a mexican pine whos dad was 7 feet, mom was about 6). typically do get larger than most kings, but definitely not unmanageable. I would look online for a breeder; Pituophis Project in Florida has been looking to move a few kids last i checked.

**Realized i started talking about Pines and you were asking about Bulls, my bad. almost identical though

**EL Ziggy** · 09-26-13, 08:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Starbuck

El-ziggy, not many morphs i am aware of, but lots of species and locales (albino is a pretty common color variant).
Species determines size, northern pines dont get as big as say, Mexican pines (i had a mexican pine whos dad was 7 feet, mom was about 6). typically do get larger than most kings, but definitely not unmanageable. I would look online for a breeder; Pituophis Project in Florida has been looking to move a few kids last i checked.

**Realized i started talking about Pines and you were asking about Bulls, my bad. almost identical though

Thanks Starbuck!

Kaianuanu · 09-27-13, 01:45 PM

Aright then, a mat and a stat. I went ahead and melted some holes all the way around the rim, do you think this will give adequate ventilation?

Terranaut · 09-27-13, 02:25 PM

Yup. Your good to go.

Kaianuanu · 09-27-13, 04:19 PM

How much do you guys think I have to spend on my heat mat and thermostat?

revent · 09-27-13, 08:04 PM

Man thermostats are stupid expencive for a decent one any ways.

exwizard · 09-28-13, 07:03 AM

Oh yeah, you'll love your Bull. I have an Albino myself. I agree with Terranaut, in a room like what you have, a small heat pad and a T-stat will work. I think it's great that you're getting one as a baby because this way, with regular handling, he will calm down quickly. Mine, I got when he was already grown so he can be a bit moody as he shakes his tail at me. Anyway, looking forward to pics as soon as you get him.

reptocarl · 11-04-13, 12:40 AM

I own a bull too, awsome species my personal favorite. Keep in mind they grow fast and large. By the time yours is two to three years old it will need a four foot habitat. I use aspen shavings for mine because they are burrowers. I've tried many different substrates including my own blends and have determined my snake is happiest with aspen.

knox · 11-04-13, 10:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kaianuanu

How much do you guys think I have to spend on my heat mat and thermostat?

Some have had great experience with the Hydrofarm Thermostat for around $35 on Amazon. It is an on/off thermostat.

I currently use the VE 200D from Reptile Baics - $115. The Spyder Robotics Herpstat is around the same price. These are top notch proportional thermostats.

Heat mats will run anywhere from $15 - $50 depending on size.

TheZoo · 11-08-13, 08:26 PM

just a few thoughts from persanal experence mine loves to soak in his water bowl and isnt much of a burrower so i switched him to paper towls for ease and clean. mine is also rather cage agressive so i have to either distract the head and pick him up or hook him once hes out hes good though