sharp teeth

[Kordie]

So I was wondering if I should put in my alligator head in my ball python setup. I was down in Fl. and I seen one of those real alligator heads, thought it was cool. I just set up a new tank for my snake. Will the teeth on the head harm him and if I put it in the water will it do anything that can harm him if he drinks the water? I am new to owning a ball python. I have had him scince July. I did alot of searching online and could not find anything out about the alligator head ideal. So I figure I will ask the experts. Thanks and any advice will be helpful.

[heathers*bps]

I personally wouldn't because of whatever chemicals they've used on that alligator head could be harmful to your snake, especially in the water.

[WingedWolfPsion]

No. Beyond a shadow of a doubt, your snake will indeed find some way to injure itself on the gator's teeth.
They're very sharp, and could do a lot of damage. Plus, the dried head would become soiled with snake feces...yuck.

I'm not sure why you think it would be waterproof, but most likely it's just a dried head with a light coat of shellac, if anything. Soaked in water, it will rot.

[decensored]

I personally wouldn't because of whatever chemicals they've used on that alligator head could be harmful to your snake, especially in the water.

I agree with this. I am not an expert on skeletal preservation by any means but I'm pretty sure most preservation includes peroxide or bleach. Both are not good to have in the snakes drinking water. As for sharpness, I wouldn't be comfortable with the teeth being in the enclosure - but I don't have an answer for you based on experience for that aspect.

Wish I could be more help,

Cheers.

[Lupe]

Just get one of the fake skulls they have for aquariums. Not as cool as what you have but its safer for your ball.

[Emily Hubbard]

I would not put it in under any circumstances, for reasons stated above. If you want a compromise, you can always use it as decoration AROUND the viv instead of in it. My tank is surrounded by houseplants and decoration, really makes it look neat. Place your alligator head and any other cool reptilian things you have or collect in the future around it. I think a decorated viv area looks really neat, and makes the snake seem more included in the home. As long as I only have one or two snakes I will do that. Of course, with 50 that gets more difficult.