Dumerils Boa Care Question

[L.West]

I just recently got a new yearling Dumeril. I know these species prefers to burrow into their substrate so that is why I got him aspen bedding. But I have to admit, I hate using Aspen. My other snakes are on paper. I find aspen harder to spot the messes.

If it is necessary for him to be happy - I will continue with the aspen but I wanted to see what you all thought about it.

Your thoughts on the importance of being able to burrow.

[cletus]

I've seen vids on youtube where people use crushed up newspaper. Seems to work for them.

[L.West]

oh, but not just plain flat brown paper. It appears they really do need to burrow so I guess I will leave well enough alone and deal with the aspen. I don't want to deprive him of what he needs.

[bcr229]

They just need to get under something. My Dums have "blankies" (old towels) rather than 8 inches of aspen bedding.

If you don't like aspen you can use cypress mulch.

[L.West]

I just prefer the Uline kraft paper. I bought aspen so I guess I will use it. He has three hides also.

[BPGator]

There are people that have their Dums on paper and give them hides, just like a BP setup.

I personally have mine on coco chips with no hides. I think it's easier for him to burrow than aspen. He had a hide at one time but it seemed to be more of an obstacle, so I removed it. I don't have too many snakes, so I prefer to give them what they seem to like over my added labor and cost.


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[L.West]

Do they prefer open spaces vs a cage with lots of hides and decor?? Mine is in a t8 cage with hides and fake greenery. I just got him on the 12th so he is still getting acclimated to his new home.

[bcr229]

Dumerils are ground boas that burrow or get under things and wait for prey to wander by. They definitely prefer a cluttered environment.

[L.West]

Since i am using th aspen bedding - will it be obvious to me when he has messed. I keep worrying he has messed and i dont know it or see it.

My other snakes you smell it immediately when you open the cage but they are on paper.

[redshepherd]

Since i am using th aspen bedding - will it be obvious to me when he has messed. I keep worrying he has messed and i dont know it or see it.

My other snakes you smell it immediately when you open the cage but they are on paper.

It's less obvious than on paper, but it's still obvious. You'll smell it, and look around for it. Dumeril's love drinking water for some reason and pee a lot! At least, mine does LOL.