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snake harming himself

hoggymomma Oct 24, 2011 10:54 PM

First off, I'm an admitted beginner with Tricolor hognoses. But I'm trying my best.

Background to the prob: converted a 40 gal breeder tank into 2 separate (approx 20 gal each) habitats for a pair of yearling Tricolors. Using undertank heater with rheostat, overhead 100w ceramic heat emitter, and wetted coconut fiber bedding for substrate. Temps are in the low 80's--still working on this.

The prob is that the male has apparently gone into the female's half, judging by the perfect line of scraped scales on his back. (The female was found twice in the male's side, so this was a real issue, although she was totally unscathed.) While the divider looked secure enough, it wasn't. That has been remedied with silicone sealing it to the bottom and sides.

But now what should I do about the scratch on his back. I want to avoid infection, which I am worried about with a humid environment. The female has nothing like that, and is eating like a pig.

Also, is there a better substrate than the moistened coconut fiber? I use Carefresh for my Western, but their humidity is totally different than the Tricolors, so that's not realistic. I'm in Nor Cal, where heat and humidity for specialized herps needs a little outside help. I've done my research, and asked for help from the supplier of my 'kids', but am appealing to the experts on this forum.

Thanks in advance for advice and being supportive.
HoggyMomma

Replies (2)

pikiemikie Oct 25, 2011 12:41 PM

Try Neosporin. Mike

markg Oct 26, 2011 01:44 PM

Neosporin works well - get the one without the pain reliever. His scales will come back in time with sheds. No worries. I do not think coconut fiber will cause any issues, but if you want to use newspaper for awhile while he is healing, then go for it. Newspaper is very benign. But so is coconut fiber due to its low PH.
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Antaresia maculosa
Antaresia childreni

Mark G

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