Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I began using newspaper and I was checking my tubs for poop, urine, and just an all around check on the balls and I could not find the snake. Where did it go? It was hiding under the newspaper. Mind you that they all have hide boxes, but I have 2 that decide they like it under the newspaper. Is this cool? Should I tape the sides so that they poop on top of the newspaper or does it not matter? I do not think it matters and I am probably making a lil too much of this, but its worth asking. P.S. I will be going over to the NY Times to pic up some unprinted end rolls. I just have not had a chance. Thanks

My babies are always hiding under the papertowel instead of in hides. It's nothing to worry about, just be prepared that if they pass urates or defecate you're going to need to clean the whole tub, not just replace the paper.

~jenny
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"Polysyllabism in no way insures that what you're saying is actually worth being heard." - Blake (an e-friend of mine)

"I have never made but one prayer to god, a very short one: "O lord, make my enemies ridiculous." And he granted it." - Voltaire

Yea I have no problem cleaning the whole tub when they defecate or urinate. I never just change the paper. I always change the paper plus clean the whole tub. I am just curious if the tub s lil rough on the scales. I figure that the paper is softer on them. This may sound kinda strange but you never know.

think about what that means in terms of what makes a useful, secure hidespot. the snake is talking to you, you just have to listen...

they hide under the paper because it feels tighter than the other hidespots. they can feel it right over their backs, and visually they can't see very far, they are completely "hidden". it would be even better if the paper had more weight to it, for a tighter "wedged in" feeling. if your regular hide spots provide this same type of security, they won't hide under the paper. if they don't, the animal uses anything it can, including the paper, out of desperation to find a secure place to be.

check out our Hidespot FAQ for more detail on my hidespot theory, and how to apply it to your animals. an animal that is feeling safe and secure is stress free : )
Pro Exotics Hidespot FAQ

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robyn@proexotics.com

Pro Exotics Reptiles

I tell you Robyn, not only do I not have hides but my ball pythons never go under the newspaper. I use ARS racks and I think becuase they are all covered with the metal shelf above them and the back 80-90% of the unit is dark, they are very comfy and feel like their entire CB-70 is a hide box. E

I use disposable cage liners with all my snakes. A few of my balls hide under the paper too. I think it just makes them feel more secure.

1. never put tape in your snake's enclosure , ever , not any kind.
2. forget the unprinted end roll crap , the only real purpose the ny times has any value serving is in the lining of critter buckets. this is best , and most appropriately accomplished in it's printed form. if unsure of this albeit well known fact , feel free to read it a little and see for yourself , then , start linin' those tubs !

ck