Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I saw a sterlite container in the Walmart today that was 90gal size. I hear that these type containers make good setups, but I don't know how to set it up. So on to a few questions..
* Is 90 gallon big enough for 1 ball python?
* Would I be able to use a UTH or would I have to go with the standard heating pad?
* Will I need a light?
* Would a reptile carpet (or similar) be sufficient substrate, or would I have to go with a thicker layer?

Being as I have no experience with this type of setup, and ideas or directions would be appreciated. Thanks.

I use that kind of container only smaller for one of my lizards. it has an UTH underneath it and i've had no problems with it. a 90gal. seems like it would be big enough for a ball python(i think that's what you said you wanted to put in it). it may even be too big for that snake. i don't have one but i've read that snakes like a smaller cage rather than too big. you could save some money and go for a smaller size. i don't think it would need a light. you're going to need a top on it, though and personally if it were me, i'd like to be able to see into the cage and get some ventilation in it. what i did for this is cut out the top of the container (lid) except for the frame, and put screen in it's place. so the lid still fits and you have a screen top. hope that helps!

Eric

thanks for the advice.. After some consideration, I think i'm going to go with the standard 20 long breeder tank with an UTH. But I am curious what people use to keep the screen tops secured down. The one I am getting has a sliding lockable screen top. I'm wondering if this will be strong enough when the snake is bigger. I dont know if the snake will be able to "pop" the sliding screen out of the track. If so I will probably remove that and go with a removable one that will be locked/weighed down some how. Anyone have any ideas or suggestions?

Have you held a ball python today?

some aquariums have locking lids. they look like handles on the aquarium and when you put the lid on, you close them to lock the lid on. i don't really know how to describe them. i've never had one, though. my friend did.