I am planning on getting a new enclosure for Annika and I am thinking about doing a few things differently than I have been. I have decided in favor of a standard 40 gal long tank with a sliding screen top to replace the current 20 gal long one. As much as I would love a Vision enclosure, none of them are the right size - by the time they are as long as I want, they are far too deep.



As for heating, I would like to switch from heat lamp to an under-the-tank heater. The local pet stores have ReptiTherm heaters in various sizes and one store has a regulator to plug the heater into so you can adjust the temp. I have heard multiple horror stories about heat rocks malfunctioning and killing reptiles. Do I have the same risk with UT heaters such as ReptiTherm? I would like to replace the heat lamp with something a little more energy efficient if it is still safe. I have also heard a lot of good about ProProducts radiant heat panels, but since I have a top opening tank, I don't think that would work too well.



I will also be a bit more careful about making sure the temperatures are right. I have a thermometer in the warm spot now, but I have ideas to make it a bit more sophisticated in the future.



Also, the local pet store has fir bark substrate that looks really nice. I have heard that pine is bad for snakes, but I have also heard that the bark doesn't have the dangerous chemicals in it. Is Fir bark okay or is it not worth messing with. I can always stick with aspen shavings.



thanks



jorj
Annika

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