DIY Branches

[Fatman]

I refuse to spend $20 or more on a branch that isn't even big enough for my BP's cage, so I figured I would make my own.
I have found a branch, but I'm about 90% sure that it is a pine. I've been looking all over the net and there is conflicting info everywhere. Some sites say pine is toxic, others say that just the bedding is because the snakes are almost constantly in it....
So I am just wondering if I can use a pine branch for my snake to climb on?

O and this is how I prepared the last 2 branches (and how I would prepare this one).
1. Soak in a mild bleach solution for about an hour and then let dry.
2. Strip off bark and sand it down
3. Bake at 400-425 degrees for 2-4 hours.

These are the 2 I already made.

[ericzerka24]

u really cooked that wood lol. You only need to throw it in the oven for 10-15 minutes at half that temperature to kill any living organisms. Suprized that it didn't burn the wood at all.

[Fatman]

The wood was still a little damp when it went in so I left it in there until is was completely dried lol.
I had a little bit of discoloration at the ends of the branches, but nothing too bad.

[mpkeelee]

the only thing i have read about pine is that the sap and oils and stuff inside are bad for them and it could cause some issues or even kill them, not 100% sure tho cuz ive never used it.

[Fatman]

Problem solved lol. I went to my mom's house to help her out with some yard work today and had to trim some trees for her. I cut off a branch that will be perfect for the tank once I trim it down to the correct size. I figured that there is no point in even risking using pine, even as a climbing branch just in case... now I just hope it fits in the oven lol.... may need to take out the racks

[sisble50]

What about sycamore? I've found that these trees produce some awesome shapes, knots, "Y"s in smaller sizes that readily are "shed" by the tree. I removed all the loose bark and sharp points. I rinsed it with just water, baked it at 350 for 15 minutes and it smelled great! LMAO I went back to see if the branch was cool enough to place and my Hog, Psych, went right for it. They aren't strictly aboreal, but she sure does LOVE to climb. She seems to really like the smell too.

She says "Thankssssssssssssssssss"


How it looks in the enclosure

[BPelizabeth]

love it!! I also cook my wood for long periods but at 275...hey never can be too sure...lol