Quote Originally Posted by Blitzjg View Post
While browsing the threads here I realized I may not be providing my BP with an ideal enclosure.

My corn snake has been in a traditional petshop style vivarium with aspen shavings, two hides, water dish and an artificial branch log that is almost the height of the cage 18ish inches or so.

My BP is in a T8, has been on cypress mulch, however I am transitioning to butcher paper, with two hides and a water dish. Thats it aside from some fake short plants I added for asthetics.

I'm starting to think that the artificial branch may get more use with my BP. I don't think my corn spends much if any time climbing, unless the top is off of the cage, and if I remove it he will have more ability to burrow.

I've noticed my BP climbing the walls/sides of his enclosure, in fact, he actually dislodged the fluorescent light bulb that is in there by climbing/exploring (although I imagine this is hunting behavior).

Should I give him the branch? Or get more objects for him and leave the corn with his piece?

Edit: I could also just not be noticing if/when my corn climbs.
BP's are ground dwellers. They can climb and explore, but in nature, they like to burrow in rat holes and wait for dinner.

What do you have for hides for you BP? Snug, and identical warm and cool side? I think having more places to hide would make a happier BP than a branch, but I don't think the branch can hurt. Having said that, make sure the branch is very secure as an adult BP is strong and heavy compared to an adult corn. You BP could easily knock it down and on his/her self.

Also, they are all very adaptable as long as their temp, humidity, and hide requirements are met. My corns spend most of the day hiding and cruise at night for food. Neither has climbing items in their tank but both come out for "exercise." Same with my BP.

I believe that done up cages are more for us as keepers, in general, than for the snakes. I keep simple tanks, with paper substrate, that meet the needs of my animals, but are easy to clean, but not nice to look at. I have 13 tanks and it's much easier to maintain a large number of tanks with needs being met, but not going crazy with decorations.

I imagine your corn would use the branch more than the BP, but being active late and early, you might not see it, or he/she prefers to hide.