Reptile & Amphibian Forums

This sounds like a horrible thing to do to such a cage but I failed to realize the small difference between the 211 and 221 when I ordered it. So there is no lighting option in it thus nowhere for the heat emitter to go. Can I do anything to fix this problem or am I just sunk?
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1.0.0 Everglades Rat Snake
1.0.0 Ball Python

I'm guessing with a bit of creativity you could mount a radiant heat panel (RHP) and a small fluorescent fixture on the inside top of your Vision.

Call Bob at ProProducts for help picking out the right RHP. Visit your local home-improvement center for help with the light.
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Current snakes:

1.1 Gonyosoma oxycephala - (Silver/Yellow)

2.2 Gonyosoma oxycephala - (Green)

4.3 Gonyosoma janseni - (Black)

Russ, From www.rlreptiles.com, handles a lot of the Vision sales on the East coast here. I think I've heard him say he can send you instructions and materials to put in the screened portion if you didn't get it originally. Hope this helps

Thanks! I wish I had known that ahead of time as I ordered a cage from WA. I did send him off an email asking for suggestions.
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1.0.0 Everglades Rat Snake
1.0.0 Ball Python

np

You're not sunk at all. You have a great cage there.

I've cut holes in Vision cages and used 1/8" medium rivets to attach screen for a 5 1/2" dome. Worked like a charm. You need to first make sure you have an un-ridged area on the top of the cage that will accept a 5 3/4" or 6" dia hole. I think that model has such an area, just can't remember.

Like Chris said, if you're not comfortable cutting up the cage, simply use an Radiant Heat Panel (RHP). I've used the 12" x 12" heat panel from Pro-Products www.pro-products.com in similar-sized cages with great success. Very easy to mount and use, and it is safe being on the inside of the cage. I think they even have a 6" x 12" model, but I found that the 12 x 12 did all the heating work in the dead of Winter w/o needing heat pads or anything else. RHPs are pricey, but last many many years (far longer than bulbs.)

Really, you're in good shape. You'll love that cage.
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Mark G

"Sweaterboxes are boring"

Thanks! I was freekin out to say the least. My husband told me I should have married a rich man when I told him the story lol. Guess he wasn't that upset.

I'll do one or the other of the suggestions. More than likely, I'll cut it and still use the emitter. If I had the cash, I would go the other route and try those panels. I have been looking for a reason to do so for a long time.

I am collecting some good parts in this snake adventure though. I have a UTH I don't need, possible a dome and 60W emitter now too. These all go with the UVB light the pet store told me snakes needed and a 100W basking light and dome that I rarely ever need.

Looks like I might as well get another snake
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1.0.0 Everglades Rat Snake
1.0.0 Ball Python

Just in case you need this info, here it is:

To cut a hole in a Vision:
Using a compass, draw a circle just a little larger than the dome reflector bottom. Drill a hole for jigsaw-blade access. Then use a jigsaw with a fine-tooth blade meant for plastics or paneling, and carefully cut. That plastic cuts like butter, so be careful not to slip or let the jigsaw run away from you.

You may also use a router and circle guide to cut the hole, or a rotary cutting tool, etc.

To rivet screen:
Get a rivet tool that does 1/8" dia rivets. You'll need medium length or long length (I forgot with Visions. On my other cages that are 1/8" thick, the medium rivets are fine. Visions are thicker, so you may need the long.) You'll need some 1/8" washers sold for riveting on the screen side so the rivets don't pull right thru the screen. Practice one or two rivets on the scrap piece of plastic you just cut out for the hole. Use the rivet tool on the plastic side, and the bottom of the rivet on the screen side.

For screen, I used the 1/8" square hardware cloth.
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Mark G

"Sweaterboxes are boring"

Thanks! I think I am just going to cut the hole I need. I have it all penciled out but wanted to be sure I was going to be putting it in the right spot before I dig or should I say saw in. I have the hole in the center of the top of the cage. The UTH is on the right side bottom and I thought I wanted CHE anywhere but over the UTH but wasn't 100% sure on it.

The Ultratherm left wide open is taking the temp up to 98 degrees so I am sure at 85 on a dimmer is plenty happy for Maynard. I was going to use the CHE to make the 90 degree basking spot over a branch in the center of the cage. Or is it even necessary? Perhaps cranking the UTH to 90 would be enough? Gosh! I worry too much!

One thing I have been meaning to ask about RHP is...

If that is the only heat you need then what do you do about belly heat?
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1.0.0 Everglades Rat Snake
1.0.0 Ball Python

You don't need belly heat if using an RHP or a CHE if the animal can reach its desired temps for digesting, etc. Snakes seem to do fantastic with CHEs. Most folks don't use them because it is cheaper and easier to use belly heat. CHEs just do something... better IMO. My snakes under CHEs always seem very healthy. CHEs do dry the air somewhat, but a little soak once in awhile for the ball python will keep it in fine shape.
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Mark G

"Sweaterboxes are boring"