[Housing] Tanks?

[IGotHerps]

Hello. I was recently browsing CL, as I do on a regular basis, and I found a really cheap 55 gal. I am getting a baby RTB soon and was wondering if I could keep it in a tank. Upsides? Downsides? Advice? Thanks, y'all. Loving these forums.

[bebowebb]

Re: Tanks?

Take a look through the following link:

Care Guide Articles

You will find a ton of good information about husbandry for your soon-to-be new addition.

In my opinion, glass tanks are typically more of a hassle than they are worth. Yes, they will technically work; however, they usually require a lot of upkeep and make maintaining temperatures and humidity levels quite a chore.

It really is worth the investment to purchase a nice quality cage such as a Boaphile Plastics 421D. (Click the highlighted text to view the Boaphile Plastics 421D websight page.) A good quality cage that is designed specifically for keeping a boa will make husbandry and maintenance a breeze. Plus a cage that size will be perfect for the entire life of your boa.

Good luck and don't hesitate to ask additional questions if you have any.

[Reinz15]

Re: Tanks?

I know buying used may be a different story, however I bought a new tank set up from Petsmart. I sure wish I knew about about the plastic enclosures beforehand. I sure didn't save any money for one thing.

Fortunately my enclosure for my second snake will be plastic/PVC. She's in a temporary right now.

[Greenwood]

Re: Tanks?

PVC cages are great but you got to remember, they generally have an ungodly lead time to them. My Pro-Line only took about 4 weeks or so but I guess I got lucky. That is why I did 40 gallon breeders for my baby sunglow and my pied bp. I plan on doing a T8 and T10 with a shelf but again those cages take about 2-3 months if im lucky to get. But yes tanks generally are more work and definitely don't look as nice. My tanks look kind of frankensteinish but they work well. Also having a Herpstat set on dimming fr the CHE makes for a much more stable temp. Lamp dimmers work too but have a fluctuation due to ambient temps in the room.

[bcr_229]

Re: Tanks?

Short term it can work. Keep the screen top covered so it retains humidity, use an under-tank heater (UTH) with a thermostat for belly heat, and keep the room ambient temperature in the mid-70's F. I would plan on ordering a PVC setup next year and as was pointed out they have a 2-3 month lead time, so don't procrastinate until the 55-gal has gotten too small for your critter.

[IGotHerps]

Re: Tanks?

Thanks, y'all. I decided that I'm gonna use a tub until I can afford a boaphile (should be 5-6 months as I have other animals). How long will a 20" x 42" x 6-1/2" tub last a 20" boa?