housing help

[ATLBalls]

Hello all.

I don't have a BP but I am considering getting one in a couple months when the reptile expo comes to Atlanta so right now I am doing homework to see what I am getting into and to see if BPs really are right for me.

One of by biggest concerns is housing the snake when I get it. I was thinking of just getting one container that it would live it for it's life.

I was going to go plastic tub because they are cheaper than glass tanks, and they come in lids with latches so that is always a bonus. I found these and was recommended them, what do you all think? (1996)

http://www.sterilite.com/Category.ht...uctCategory=40

[wolfy-hound]

The long side without any latch would need reenforcing. That's a lot of unsecured edge for a snake to push out of.
You can drill holes through both edges(lid and tub) and put thumbscrews through to secure it though.
You want to use a smaller enclosure for smaller snakes however. It makes them feel more secure. Check this site for stickies on setting up a tub.
Tubs are preferably by many keepers, because it's easier to keep the humidity proper.
Oh, and don't get the one with wheels. They are more of a pain to clean around the corners.
HOpe this helps, I'm sure someone else will go into more detail!

[Mochelem]

Those Tubs would be ok for a large adult, but it will have too much open space for a young BP.

a hatchling should be in a 12qt sterilite

a young adult 21qt sterilite

a sub adult 32qt sterilite

adult 41qt sterilite

The tubs a pretty cheap so it shouldnt be a big concearn when you have to upgrade as the snake gets older.

[stangs13]

28qts to a 32/41 qts is what you will need for its life for just one ball! Good luck, and do your homework!

[Mochelem]

Heres a good post with pics

I've got a few pics of my setup.





A picture of the flexwatt (heat tape) on the bottom of my tub, with the thermostat probe taped on:

[Mochelem]

heres another

Oops...waited too long to edit.

Here's the tub setup for young snakes as well, since you said you were getting a hatchling.

[ATLBalls]

thanks for the pics. I did remember I have a spare 10 gal (or maybe its 15...) that I used to keep hermit crabs in that I have in my closet. It even has a UTH still attached to it.

I suppose that is an option also.

Also looking at getting some flexwatt. I found a website for it, but they don't say how much you get per unit (i.e. ordering 1). perhaps you order by the foot?

[Mochelem]

thanks for the pics. I did remember I have a spare 10 gal (or maybe its 15...) that I used to keep hermit crabs in that I have in my closet. It even has a UTH still attached to it.

I suppose that is an option also.

Also looking at getting some flexwatt. I found a website for it, but they don't say how much you get per unit (i.e. ordering 1). perhaps you order by the foot?

Yes all flexwatt is ordered by the foot, if you go to reptilebasics.com they have flexwatt, if you order it withe the wire clip and insulator kit and ask him to wire it for you he will... no aditional charge

[ATLBalls]

so for the average enclosure, a foot is about all you'd need depending on the width, right?

on average, what width's do people use for their enclosures? the jump from 4" to 11" width is pretty substantial.