Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I currently have my WC gopher snake (I have had her a year) on white paper towels for a substrate. I was considering moving to a substrate that looked more like the natural habitat here in Wyoming, but I am unsure of the risks posed by having a substrate of rocks and dirt with perhaps some sage. From an aesthetic perspective it would beat the hell out of the paper towels, but it would be a bit more difficult to clean. Any of you out there have thoughts on this?

For my collection, I use paper towels and newspaper only. If I had to choose another substrate, I would choose aspen shavings, which I used to use. The aspen does have a natural look and if you have the time to keep it clean, then I would say try that out. As far as what brands that are good, it has been so long since I used it that I would not be able to tell ya. Perhaps someone can chime in on this one.

I know that it gets tricky when it comes to using dirt due to perhaps bacteria growing in it if it were to get wet or damp. Also..ingestion of it is another factor as well and may keep a lot of people from using it as well.

Take care!
Billy
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Genesis 1:1

I have used walnut substrate and liked it. I have used Reptilite sand, and this can look good in a terrarium set up and it can be ingested with out harm to your snake too.
I have most of my snakes in a sweater box rack set up and use Carefresh pet bedding for the lightness on the rack and the easy clean up. A friend of mine uses Carefresh also and loves it.
I don't think it looks as nice as walnuts or Reptilite so only use it in the rack. But like it's ease of use. Try it.
-Dell