Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi everyone,
I am interested in building a bigger cage for my ball python. I have a good amount of carpentry experience and many tools. I'm interested in making a cage about 1' high, 1 1/2' deep, and 2 1/2-3' long. I will either use 1X8 finishing boards or 1/2" plywood. I want it to look nice, so I was thinking of using my router to cut out two tracks for plexiglass to slide in, very secure and nice looking. I'll have a mostly screen top for the heat lamp, and nice looking climbing branches. Would it be alright to sand and varnish the outside of the cage to make it look extra nice. Also, is regular linoleum ok for the bottom of the cage, I have some left over from flooring two small rooms? Are their any "tricks of the trade" or good websites you all recommend? I would really appreciate any info you can give me.

Thanks,
Taylor

Great dimensions!

I'd love to find a plastic cage that's 30W x 18D x 12H. A great size for a Ball Python.

My only concern is the top. A screen top will give you the same results as an aquarium -- loss of heat and humidity. If it were me, I'd make a solid top, vent the back of the cage, and heat the cage with a radiant heat panel (probably a 12 x 12" controlled with a proportional thermostat. Or maybe a 9 x 12" depending on your typical room temps.).

If you want to light the interior you could get an 18" fluorescent light fixture and install that inside. Use a bulb with a high CRI (color rendering index). But there's a good chance that the BP would remain hidden if the cage was bright. They like to hide during the day.

Bill