For a cheap setup, you can use rubbermaid plastic storage containers and drill small holes in the sides for ventilation (make sure the lid is secure!!!!). For an adult cal king, get a nice big one, 30-40 gallons in size. Babies will do fine in much smaller ones. These are cheaper than glass tanks.

Next, get a heating pad (either for people or reptiles), rheostat/light dimmer, and thermometer or temp gun (www.tempgun.com). This will probably cost you 50-75 bucks, the most expensive part of the setup. Having a good thermometer with a probe and preferabbly a min/max setting is important. This will allow you to ensure proper cage temps as the seasons change.

And yes, I strongly recommend using a heat source! You want to set up a thermal gradient so the snake can choose between a warmer and cooler side. This is what they do all the time in the wild. Depending on the season, cool side temps should range from the 60's to 70's while the warm side should be between 80-90.

For a substrate, Carefresh, aspen, paper towels, newspaper, and coconut bedding are all relatively cheap and effective. I use aspen, personally, although I am thinking about switching to coconut.

Water dish - use a deli cup, they are free.

Hide boxes - There are many ways to provide cheap/free hiding spots - clay pot holders with holes knocked in them, tupperware containers turned upside down, cork bark, etc. Avoid buying one from a pet shop, they are often too roomy/expensive. A good hide is tight, secure, and dark.

Buy mice in bulk online to save money on food.

But don't skimp on the important stuff, 'cause vet bills are expensive!!!



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- Andy
ToothAndScale.com - herp and underwater photography

1.0 Sandfire x Yellow Bearded Dragon
0.1 Albino Black Ratsnake
0.1 California Mountain Kingsnake

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