Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I don't guess anyone has ever used this hae you? It is in the July issue of REPTILES on like the 2nd page with zoomed. I looked on th website and they must not have put it on there yet. I requested a catolog. I just wanted an expert to tell me about any flaws it ight have. I know fo only one and that is it not wide and would have to go around in circles to make the surface at the right temp. I am going to look into this one bcause It cames up to 39' and I can use it for my future snake racks an the python cages then.
-----
Justin

I have used a similar product that worked quite well (connected to a quality thermostat). Personally, though, I would recommend Flex Watt heat tape; it too comes in any size roll and various widths. The cable types of heating devices, to my knowledge, are fairly thin making it difficult to spread heat out over a surface that would work well for a large burm. Just my .02 though.
Rob

Rob Carmichael, Curator
The Wildlife Discovery Center at Elawa Farm, IL

Thanks. If I get it I will roll it up into spiral shape and attch it to the bottom of the enclosure. My nezt ? is: Should I put it on or underneath the outside of the bottom.
-----
Justin

I personally have never used it but I do know that animal plastics utilize it in their cages when you order the optional belly heat. As far as using it I think the best way to install it would be to router a groove into the floor of the cage. I would do on the inside of the cage. You can router a curvy line the goes back and forth weaving its way across the cage. I would probably space the rows out about 9" or so. When you get to the spot of the cage that you want to utilize as a abasking area then I would do a shorter concetric circle just for that spot. Then I would cover the entire floor with a thin piece of wood or plastic. This will help protect the snake from coming in contact with the rope. And like Rob said ensure that you use a quality thermostat or rheostat to control the temps. Todd

Wow! Thanks todd. I never thought about routering it. Great idea. don't know why I did not think of it. I almost did not get to sleep last night ttrying to figure out a good way of doing it. Oh and yeas I will use something to control the temp/wattage. If it needs it. I don't know if it already may come with it.
-----
Justin