Asked on the Snake Forum by hky001 on 1/27/2005, 7:44 pm
Q: New owner..couple questions
I just got a red striped cornsnake which is my first snake, and I had a few quick questions.
First of all do I leave the heat lamp on 24/7?
Also, are there any things to buy that they like to climb on or something that I can put into the cage. The snake is about 3 months old if that helps.
Lastly, what type of container do you recommend feeding them in. I know it should be separate from their cage. Would a cardboard box work fine? Thanks in advance.
Answered by nodrama65 on 1/28/2005, 4:30 am
A: New owner..couple questions
> I just got a red striped cornsnake which is my first snake,
> and I had a few quick questions.
> First of all do I leave the heat lamp on 24/7?
> Also, are there any things to buy that they like to climb on
> or something that I can put into the cage. The snake is
> about 3 months old if that helps.
> Lastly, what type of container do you recommend feeding them
> in. I know it should be separate from their cage. Would a
> cardboard box work fine? Thanks in advance.
>
Congrats on your first snake.The heat light should not be left on all the time because just like all animals snakes need day and night time.As another source of heat i would reccomend an under tank heat pad.I use a regular heating pad placed under the tank covering about half the tank.that way the snake still has a cool and a warm place to go to regulate their body temp.As far as things for them to climb on I have some rocks and some vine decorated with artificial leaves.these are good for climbs as well as a hide for the snake.Now as to what to put the snake in to feed most people ive talked to use the rubbermaid containers with small holes in the lid for a feed box.A cardboard box would be ok if you keep an eye on the snake so that it doesnt get loose.I hope this has helped you some and good luck with your new snake.
Answered by tswing on 1/28/2005, 7:32 am
A: New owner..couple questions
nodrama was correct in his/her answer, but there something that I do not encourage. That is cardboard boxes for feeding containers. Although they serve the purpose well, some manufacturers spray these cardboard boxes with repellent for bugs and animals. Chances are most boxes will not contain enough or strong enough repellent to kill your animal, it would still be wise to use something such as a Rubbermaid container which is gauranteed to be safe. Just make sure to keep an eye on your snake while he is eating.
Answered by Stellar Mind on 1/28/2005, 12:10 pm
A: New owner..couple questions
as far as the light, nodrama's right, u can use an under the tank heater or also a lower watt black or red bulb, that way the snake still has some light to see. either way works, and make sure u don't use a bright light cause it will cause your snake undue stress. Although its not a corn snakes favorite thing to do it will climb if you give it a little tree or branch, and definately provide it water and a hide box so it feels secure, you also may want a humidty box, although cornsnakes don't need high humiditys when shed time comes it will help it tremendously with removing its skin easier. good luck and congrats on your new snake
