Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Things You’ll Need:
- Full-spectrum Fluorescent Lamp
- Silk Plants
- Terrarium
- Terrarium Bedding
- Terrarium Heater
- Terrarium Humidifier
- Terrarium Lid Cover
Step1
Choose a terrarium that gives the snake enough room to stretch out and move around and has both vertical and horizontal spaces, such as shelves and ledges.
Step2
Avoid a wire-lined terrarium. To maintain proper temperature and high humidity, opt for glass or Plexiglas terrariums.
Step3
Look for a terrarium that has a secure, wire mesh lid.
Step4
Light up the terrarium with an attached full-spectrum fluorescent lamp.
Step5
Choose a terrarium that has a large basking area and plenty of room for branches, rocks and a hiding box.
Step6
Make sure the terrarium has at least two sides made of glass or Plexiglas. Some snake experts recommend Plexiglas because glass produces a glare.
Step7
Select a terrarium that has an under-tank heater or an attached heat lamp.
Step8
Keep your snake's environment safe with a terrarium that's easy to clean. A detachable bottom makes it easier to clean the tank's floor.
Comments
hvacjones said
on 7/26/2008 Certain snakes actually thrive with wood shavings. For example, vets recommend aspen shavings for Ball Pythons
Anonymous said
on 2/16/2006 It is advisable to get enough information on your snake that you know if they normally go into a hibernation or dormant state. Some snakes will get very ill or possibly die if not allowed to hibernate. For instance, many sub-species of Garter Snake. To allow them to hibernate, place the snake tank in a cool dark location for 1-2 months. Ideally, temperatures should be 40-50 degrees F. Always make sure that the hibernating snake has fresh water, however, in case they come out of hibernation. Also, when moving the snake back into the heat, try not to allow the temperature change to be too abrupt.
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 (This was forgotten in the original "how to" article).
Your snake needs water! Get a dish large enough for your snake to get in (they like to take baths too!) I use the disposable-style glad/ziplock bowls for my smaller snakes, and I purchased a cat litterbox (never used but washed well, of course) to use as a water bowl/bath for my larger snake. Use a water-conditioner, like repti-safe, to get rid of chlorine, chloramines, etc. Change the water (and clean the bowls) often, especially if they've been soaking. Again, do your research!
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 Not all snakes are alike! Depending on their native homes, they will thrive on different conditions. (For example, Dumeril's boas are from the drier part of Madagascar, therefore you need less humidity than rain-forest boas & pythons). Do your research (preferably BEFORE you get your new snake)!
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 Be sure that your cage has a "warm side" and a "cool side" preferably with a hide box/cave on each side, so the snake will feel secure as well as comfortable. How warm and how cool actually depends on the type of snake you have. Do your research!!!