ball python question....IMPORTANT!!

[mo1384]

I built a top for an 80 gallon tank out of pine wood. I have read that pine substrate is dangerous for a ball python. My question: will my snake be harmed from just the tank top? at night he is always poking his head at the screen top, but other than that he wouldn't be in contact with it. Thanks to anyone who takes time to answer.

[kavmon]

i would get a water based sealant and put a few coats on the bare wood.


make double sure it is fully dry/cured before use!!



vaughn

[Dr_Gonz0]

I built a top for an 80 gallon tank out of pine wood. I have read that pine substrate is dangerous for a ball python. My question: will my snake be harmed from just the tank top? at night he is always poking his head at the screen top, but other than that he wouldn't be in contact with it. Thanks to anyone who takes time to answer.

Bad idea. Would you take only a little poison because it is just a bit? Of course not. The oils in pine are deadly to snakes. It may be ok if you seal it up completely with a product such as varathane plastic paint, someone correct me if I am wrong though.

I personally would not take the risk and just scrap it. What has more value to you really ... a wood canopy or your snake's life? Even when you break it down to a simple cash value, a new peice of plywood is cheap compared to buying a new snake.

Robin

[lord jackel]

I built a top for an 80 gallon tank out of pine wood. I have read that pine substrate is dangerous for a ball python. My question: will my snake be harmed from just the tank top? at night he is always poking his head at the screen top, but other than that he wouldn't be in contact with it. Thanks to anyone who takes time to answer.

An 80 gall for a Ball? My god that is a bit big how do you plan to make him feel secure in such a large tank?

As to your question he will be fine. Pine (when the fibers are broken - as in shavings) releases phenols. These phenols are belived to cause respirtory stress that could lead to illness. However, they are lighter than air so they will rise away from that tank and very few should actually settle inside the tank. They also don't last long as only the cut ends of lumber would release any and few at that.

[BallPythonsRule]

Not a good idea.. but, isn't an 80 gallon too big? Even for an adult..?

[WingedWolfPsion]

Depends on the individual snake--if the snake is eating well, and moving around at night, then the cage might be just right for it. Some BPs get insecure in larger cages, some don't seem to find it stressful.