What type of wood is suitable for a python enclosure?
July 31, 2009 - 5:27 am
We are planning on making a big enclosure out of wood and mesh. What kind of wood would be best, or, better yet, what kind of wood should I specifically stay away from?
You need to stay away from Cedar and Pine. Both of which are poisonous to reptiles. Some people argue that pine is an ok material to use but others have proof that it can make the animal sick. So why risk it?
Any wood but Pine and Cedar no matter how many layers of protectant you use over it.
Good luck building the enclosure
July 31st, 2009 at 10:37 am
You need to stay away from Cedar and Pine. Both of which are poisonous to reptiles. Some people argue that pine is an ok material to use but others have proof that it can make the animal sick. So why risk it?
Any wood but Pine and Cedar no matter how many layers of protectant you use over it.
Good luck building the enclosure
References :
I have over eight years of experience owning and researching reptiles
http://reptilianyex.tripod.com
http://www.allexperts.com/ep/704-100165/Reptiles/Yexalen.htm
July 31st, 2009 at 11:24 am
Stay AWAY from Ceader! IT’s deadly poisonous to animals! The best type of wood for custom-build enclosures is lumber that has not been treated with any form of pesticides or dyes. I’ve seen many custom built tanks for burms and redtails in my years at the pet shop and most of them have normal lumber exteriors, plexiglass doors, heavy wire mesh vents at the top, and sand polished wood interiors.
References :
8+ years in the pet trade
July 31st, 2009 at 12:01 pm
that’s it right above
built a few myself
plexiglass and/or plywood
screen/wire mesh
hinges
screws
something to securely lock it
References :
20+ year keeping reptiles
July 31st, 2009 at 12:09 pm
I agree on the cedar and pine, cedar and pine both contain phenols, which aggravate the linings in the respiratory systems of animals (its what gives the wood that smell) and can lead to kidney/liver damage from the phenols that get absorbed through the skin.
http://www.reptile-cage-plans.com/FAQ.html
A list of good FAQ’s.
Things to consider, make it escape proof, consider installing a lock on the front of it. You don’t have to lock it, but its always nice to know its there. Ease of cleaning, if at all possible you don’t want wood at the bottom, it’ll get soaked with water, get nasty, and then you’ll have to start all over. Look into getting plexi glass for two sides, or more, so that it can retain heat and humidity. Make sure you can fit climbing branches, and a nice big water container in there. Think about how you’re going to heat it, clean it, and move it. And lastly, be careful of any chemicals you use in it (any sealants, caulks, paints) because they could be toxic.
Just things to think about. Good luck, I’m totally dreading having to build an enclosure for my boa in a year or two. I’m so OCD about everything =/
References :