Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi - I have a question about wood types that are acceptable to use with geckos (specifically ciliatus). I know that cedar is bad, but the guy at my pet store told me there were problems with a couple of other kinds as well, and like an idiot I forgot to write down what he said... now I can't remember and I've moved so I can't go ask him. Mostly I just want to know what is safe, either store-bought, or I have access to some (pesticide-free) apple tree branches right now and thought those might be OK. Thanks for any input...
-Beth

I assume you mean live cut or dead fall tree branches for climbing as opposed to cage construction materials.

Stay away from any conifer (pine trees). I have used oak, cherry, fruit woods, chestnut, maple, elm. Generally the hard wood trees in the back yard will be just fine. Cannot think of a bad one off the top of my head.
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Rhac 'n Roll Reptiles http://home.netcom.com/~deadrats/h.htm

Thanks - I didn't think there'd be problems, but it wasn't something I wanted to play with.

you can leave the bark on or off, your choice. Green wood is easier to peel than dry. If you peel the bark on green wood, wait a few days until it dries out before putting it in with the animals. The sap can be irritating to human skin, so why not for the gex too ?? Also the only precautions would be to wash the branches off, that will remove any harmful chemicals (unlikely). No need to go through any sterilization and the like. Anything in the wood is eating wood and will not hurt the gex, any bugs are a snack...
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Rhac 'n Roll Reptiles http://home.netcom.com/~deadrats/h.htm

thanks again - I know I can use dowels, it just seems like it would be easier to prop up branches (and they'd look nicer)

-Beth