Safe materials for snake decoration

[Bogertophis]

Any wood other than pine or cedar, would work. Just be sure to coat it in polyurethane.

I agree, but I'd stay away from plywood as it off-gasses the toxic stuff it's held together with. And it's hard to coat perfectly, as the cut sides are rough.

Remember that snakes do need traction though- a smooth ledge won't do it without some modifications. One thing I like to use for my rat snakes instead of wood platforms are woven baskets of the right size & shape. Easy to cut off the handles too, if they're in the way, plus they attach easily to branches & snakes usually love them- especially the "bowl shape" they may even feel safe enough to sleep in sometimes- which is disgustingly cute.

Just my suggestion- baskets are much easier to work with than coating wood shelves that a snake may not be comfortable with- plus, if you attach a basket with wire (not permanently glued in), you can remove & wash them if needed.

Oh, the BEST thing about baskets is they're cheap & available- if not in your cupboard from Easters past, look in thrift stores- they have TONS of them, cheap!

Safe paints are hard to find- read the fine print! You want "pet-safe" NO-VOC (no volatile organic compounds) & you might have to special order it- consult an expert in a paint store (& good luck). You won't likely find it in Walmart or many regular hardware stores, as most ppl don't care to look for it, or pay extra.

You can also look for products (paint & other coatings) sold for building ponds for fish, for example- they might carry something you can use, as fish cannot handle toxics either.