Enclosure size

Sorry for the new thread on this but I couldn't find the exact answer in other similar threads.

I have read that you need a tank/enclosure with a circumference at least as long as your snake. For an adult BP, 36" x 12" is recommended in a number of care sheets. However, it appears that the tub-systems are smaller than typical tanks. I've looked at the mid-sized snake racks on Reptile Basics web site and the tubs are 16 1/8" x23 3/4" x 6" (approx)/ 30.6 quarts. I assume this is adequate space/size to keep adult BPs in permanently? I'd like to hear from some of you rack-system keepers as I am looking at going that way.

On a separate note, I had to comment that I just received my IR thermometer. Wow! What a great tool! Point and click and I know the exact temp anywhere in the tank. So cool.

Thanks.

I keep my adult ball python females in approximately 41 qt tubs, which are approximately 33" by 15" (floor area.)

Ok. Maybe it was a dumb question since the circumference on the tub system is 6.5 feet. Definitely longer than an adult BP but how about the 6-inch height? Well, I guess they wouldn't build them that way if they didn't work though.....

Ok. I should have looked a little more at the various RB systems. The rack system they have "for larger snakes" is 17.75" x 33.5" x 5.25" (approx)/ 30.6 quarts. They indicate it is suitable for adult BPs. Still seems low though.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Nvar

Ok. I should have looked a little more at the various RB systems. The rack system they have "for larger snakes" is 17.75" x 33.5" x 5.25" (approx)/ 30.6 quarts. They indicate it is suitable for adult BPs. Still seems low though.

---

Yes, that is what most breeders keep their adult females in. They do not need too much height since they are terrestrial creatures.

32 quart tubs are around 16"x23.75" which actually gives the snake more floor space than a 20 gallon long.

The CB-70 tubs that are used in the largest rack made by RBI are 33.5"x17.75" which is just a tad bit smaller than a 30 gallon long.

The height part isn't really an issue because balls aren't made for climbing.

Thanks. Just want to make sure before I invest.

I have my adult BPs in the 33" X 17" tub rack system. I've found, however, the enclosure size is great for the snakes but....after adding an appropriate size water bowl (4"-6" cir.) and a humid hide or regular hide, it seems to be cramped. Then, if you are planning to breed your BPs, you have to account for a male/female pair in the tub (even if its temporary). I'm currently planning on investing in a larger rack system (ARS) for my big girls.

Hope this helps.

I have Animal Plastics (Ball Room) racks and I do love them. Just keep in mind you might need to upgrade...or, if it becomes an addiction like for most of us you will NEED to upgrade...

:rolleye2:

Both my balls have climbing branches in their vivs, and use them often.Dimissing a whole species of snake "as balls are not made for climbing" is a bit misleading, each animal is different.

My plan is to acquire a high-white female pied since I've wanted one since I first saw one and to breed it with my male spider at first (them willing). Not as a economic enterprise but for the sheer fun of seeing what I get and having the experience of breeding and hatching little unique wigglers.

Since I can reap the benefit of all your expertise, my question is "what rack-system would you buy if you could pick the best for a breeding newbie, ie. lowest maintenance and highest likelihood of success." My only limits are I only want to keep two or maybe three permanent adults but I will need space for the "young-uns" after they leave the incubator but before they find a new home. I want a smaller rack-system. Not one of those with a dozen tubs. That's assuming it's OK to keep the little ones together?