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How to Buy a Snake Terrarium

Snakes can be real escape artists. A snake house that stays warm and humid and provides the snake his privacy without allowing him to escape is optimal.

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    Difficulty:
    Moderately Easy

    Instructions

    Things You'll Need

    • Full-spectrum Fluorescent Lamp
    • Silk Plants
    • Terrarium
    • Terrarium Bedding
    • Terrarium Heater
    • Terrarium Humidifier
    • Terrarium Lid Cover
      • 1

        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.

      • 2

        Avoid a wire-lined terrarium. To maintain proper temperature and high humidity, opt for glass or Plexiglas terrariums.

      • 3

        Look for a terrarium that has a secure, wire mesh lid.

      • 4

        Light up the terrarium with an attached full-spectrum fluorescent lamp.

      • 5

        Choose a terrarium that has a large basking area and plenty of room for branches, rocks and a hiding box.

      • 6

        Make sure the terrarium has at least two sides made of glass or Plexiglas. Some snake experts recommend Plexiglas because glass produces a glare.

      • 7

        Select a terrarium that has an under-tank heater or an attached heat lamp.

      • 8

        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.

    Tips & Warnings

    • Use unprinted newspaper or butcher paper to line the terrarium floor. Never use kitty litter, gravel, wood shavings or corncob bedding.

    • Always provide privacy for your snake.

    • Consider using silk plants inside the terrarium. They're easy to clean and help maintain humidity.

    • Snakes, especially the California king snake, are well-known for finding ways to escape from their terrariums. Make sure you always secure the lid. To be extra-sure, always lay something like a heavy book or a brick on top of the lid.

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    Comments

    • hvacjones Jul 26, 2008
      Certain snakes actually thrive with wood shavings. For example, vets recommend aspen shavings for Ball Pythons
    • hvacjones Jul 26, 2008
      Certain snakes actually thrive with wood shavings. For example, vets recommend aspen shavings for Ball Pythons
    • Feb 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.
    • Feb 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.
    • Nov 22, 2005
      When with a new pet snake, be careful about handling it. The snake is not used to you. Wait until it becomes familiar with you before handling.

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