I'm looking into getting my first snake, and I'm slowly acquiring all the materials.
I volunteer at a local bird and reptile center, so I got lucky when they cleaned out their storage. I've been gifted with what I'm presuming is a 40 gallon long (48"x18"?x24") tank with cover, some water dishes, and enough aspen to last my rattery through the year. I also have way more 10 gallon tanks than I know what to do with, if anyone is in the market.

Normally I keep mammals, so I don't have to worry about climate control.

Right now I have:


  • 1 four foot long tank
  • 1 six inch resin rock water bowl
  • Way too much aspen
  • Screen lid (need to buy clips)
  • Small hide (I have some leftover rat hides as well - would that work?)
  • 1 Fake branch - came with the tank
  • 10 gal tank (for feeding?)


I know I need a heat source. Any recommendations? I think I saw a heat lamp, sans bulb, in the pile of things they want to get rid of, but I don't know if it's still there.

I might be moving to Seattle in Feb, so I'm going to wait until Nov when I hear back, but I want to get as much stuff as possible.

Anyone have experience with road trips and snakes?