fir bark

[NotYet]

Some say that pine is a no no when it comes to choosing a substrate. I was wondering if fir bark is acceptable. Pines and firs are both evergreens, I don't know what to think. Anyone? Thanks in advance.

[ClayEnglish]

Re:fir bark

Although pine shavings is an acceptable substrate for boas, it is just not the recommended when several better solutions are available.

The danger is, if the pine is not kiln dried, the pine oils in the wood become toxic.

Other evergreens such as cedar have been proven TOXIC to snakes.

I don't know anything about fir trees, but I would not use it and opt for the more available and approved substrates, such as aspen, or cypress.

[Damian]

Re:fir bark

i agree, skip the fir bark and use either aspen or cypress mulch.

[Larry]

Re:fir bark

I'm a big fan of the aspen. You can get it at any pet store pretty cheap, it lasts a long time, and you don't have to bake it or anything before you use it. I used to use it for all 3 of my snakes but as my ball got bigger, I found newspaper to work the best. I have also switched my boa to newspaper as well. My corn is still on the aspen, but cleaning up after her is easier then the ball or boa.

Just my 2 cents!
Larry
Waynesboro, VA

[NotYet]

Re:fir bark

Hey thanks for the help guys. I doubt that the fir has the same oils in it, the wood is quite different. But, I'm taking no chances and getting rid of it.
I'll probably use bed-a-beast then. Its cool to work with, I'm still at that point where setting up enclosures is still fun.

[Guest]

Re:fir bark

Yeah, I wouldn't take any chances either by using firbark.

There are so many other substrates outthere to use such as: Bed-a-Beast, Apsen & Cypris ect....I use astro turf.

[Barracuda_41]

Re:fir bark

8)I use western fir bark for my lizards and scorps and tarantulas, but for my snakes i use patio indoor outdoor carpet... ;D

[NotYet]

Re:fir bark

It just looked really cool. ;D

[sclark]

Re:fir bark

I agree with everything that was said.. I use Bird/reptile litter.. Just little sqaures of wood that are kiln dries 4 times.. I like Aspen or Cyprus multch but can't find it local any more.. Newsprint and indoor outdoor carpet works good as well.. I would avoid any type of pine. if ingested you will have a very sick or possibly a dead one..

Good luck...

Steve

[bigmitch]

Re:fir bark

I use good old newspaper! Its not the most attractive but, Its cheap and easy to clean..Safe too.. I think Cuda has me convinced on the carpet though! ;D

[Damian]

Re:fir bark

the only problem with carpet is that you must stay on top of it as far as cleaning goes. when the snake defecates you must clean the carpet immediately. this is why most people have another piece handy. dont get me wrong carpet can be a very good substrate (i used it for years in my ball pythons cage, and still use it today) but you must be very careful about keeping it clean. i also would never use carpet in a tree boa or pythons cage. the frequent misting will result in bacteria/mold growth under the carpet.

[sclark]

Re:fir bark

Different thought. i know some of the lizards I get in as rescues are missing nails, toes or feet from some carpets.. Just have to watch freys..

Steve

[___LEE___]

Re:fir bark

this is why i stick to newspaper u don't have to worry about all of this lol no offense meant but i use newspaper helps put my mind at ease when it comes to mites and ticks i know here at the petstore they sell reptibark and i looked at the bags the other day i was going to try that out but i saw many bugs in it so i think i will stay with newspaper... just what i feel that works the best for me others is different as u can see!!! o yea welcome to the forums may u learn alot here as i have and meet new friends!!!

[NotYet]

Re:fir bark

Newspaper has that natural look. ;D

[Nate]

Re:fir bark

Yes, and you can catch up reading on any articles while you clean cages. Nice. Newspaper and paper towels for me! Easy to clean and cheap. ;D