Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi folks,

Just recently fulfilled a 20 year dream - completed our built-in cages in our home office for our Burmese and Green 'Conda (seperate enclosures, of course). Our Green moved in yesterday and today I spied some ants (about three) in his habitat. I'm sure there must be more, and I'm also certain they're attracted to the water in the habitat. I'm well aware they can harm my snake, and we're ready to move him into his former cage if required. Any suggestions on gettin' rid of the ants without harming the snake?

Ancillary question... We found "Cocoa Mulch" at Lowe's, and are considering using it for substrate. It's Cocoa bean husks. Ya'll have any experience with this stuff? Looks nice, sort of like dead leaves on a forest floor but it does have a rather strong odor. Your opinions, please!

Thanks,

Dave Sanders

im no snake expert but in the corn snake forum someone posted a question about ants and the response was diatomacious earth. you casn get it a health food stores. like i said im not sure but that was what the peeps in the Cs forum said

Okay!

Thanks so much... I'll go take a look!

Dave Sanders

Folks,

Went out to find some products this morning. I was able to find diatomaceous earth at Lowe's, but only the pool filter variety (one box is enough to ant-proof the San Diego Zoo!). The nursery had never heard of the stuff! (?!?!). Anyhow, I did score a Citrus Oil product:

"Ortho Home Defense Indoor Insect Killer with Orange Peel Extract"

It comes in a green spray bottle with a yellow top. Worked great - ya' shoulda' seen the little buggers scramble for their lives! It's been several hours and there's only been two stragglers I've seen so far (there were dozens this morning). The fat happy Green 'Conda was non-plussed by the whole incident after being re-introduced to the enclosure.

Thanks again, appreciate the assistance!!

Talk with ya' later,

Dave Sanders