Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I would like to build (or buy, if it's cheaper/better) a custom snake enclosure. Right now I just have a 90 gallon tank for my adult ball python. The floor space on it is just about right.

However, I want to purchase a few more BP's and potentially breed a couple of them. I don't really want a "breeder" type setup where they're in the rubbermade tubs or whatever in shelves, as they'll be "pets" too and want to be able to display them.

I was hoping someone had some advice or pics/plans on what I could build to house 4-6 adult ball pythons. I want glass/plexi fronts for viewing and easy access to remove the snake (while being escape proof). The enclosure would sit up against the wall so rear access would be out.

Something that includes provisions for built in heaters/lights would be great, I know a lot of people work in under tank heat but I'm completely unfamiliar with it.

Thanks!

You can purchase a plastic cage (4ft x 2ft floor area for example) with heat (undercage) and you are done with that part.

The other option is build your own with front doors and use one or two radiant heat panels to heat the cage. A cabinet shop will often build you the cage shell, and you can do the doors and heater install.

BPs like to hide all day and come out a dusk or evening. So your idea of a display cage, if taylored for the benefit of the snakes, will pretty much not have any snake activity during the day most of the time.

IMO, ball python and "display" is an example of irony. These snakes do best housed with tight hides or at least allow the snakes to be largely out of view.

I really think breeder setups actually benefit ball pythons. And I'm not a big fan of rack systems persay, or at least, for every single species of snake. But for balls, it makes sense.
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Mark

Mine is actually out during the day and evening quite frequently.

Animal Plastics, Vision Cages, Boaphile Plastics, Reptile Basics are just a few of the places that have some nice stackable cages that open in the front. Depending on how much you want to spend, what size, what type of heat, and what type of doors you want, it could be any of these. Or you could make your own.