Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I am looking to get started in caring for GTPs. I have read several publications on the Species.

I was wondering what you guys use for housing? Also how well does it work for you? I know it will differ due to my climate in the North East.

What Type would be a good starter? Whether some are prone to be hardy eaters? Or ones with better temperment?

Radiant heat Panels yes no? Which ones do you prefer?

Thanks in advance for any answers
John

>>I am looking to get started in caring for GTPs. I have read several publications on the Species.
>>
>>I was wondering what you guys use for housing? Also how well does it work for you? I know it will differ due to my climate in the North East.
>>
>>What Type would be a good starter? Whether some are prone to be hardy eaters? Or ones with better temperment?
>>
>>Radiant heat Panels yes no? Which ones do you prefer?
>>
>>Thanks in advance for any answers
>>John

First and foremost the more you read before hand the better you will be should any problems arise, I would recommend Greg Maxwell's the complete chondro and The Green Tree Python and Emerald Tree Boa: Care, Breeding and Natural History. Loads of information and pictures contained in both books.

Housing is covered very detailed in Greg's book and free on his website, however depending on the age of snake and the number of snakes you will be housing will dictate what direction works best for housing. I personally prefer tubs/rack systems for neonates and a larger cage, like one from Animal Plastics for adults. I have seen adults housed in 24.24.24 cages or 36.24.24 cages.

I prefer heat panels BUT try to find ones that don't need to gas out or if they do need to gasout be prepared to run it full power in a well ventilated room for at least 48-72hours.

Hopes this helps.
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Jason A.
"Long time Herper, first year Breeder `07."
My 2008 Care Sheet & The BRB Stats. Username: brb@kingsnake.com

Hi Thanks for the advice.

I have read both books but was getting general advice from people. Sometimes books become out dated quickly due to knowledge and break thoughs in husbandry.

I plan a keep a baby GTP in a six quart for a while then move to a 15qt then from that point to a nice display cage.

Is there any ill effect with housing a baby GTP in a enclosure that measures 36inx24inx24in?

babies can get VERY stressed if you house them in too large of a cage at young ages. Sure they will do the perch thing and wonder around at night, but I have noticed they become much more hesitant to eating regularly, their moods will be more unpredictable, and it is just generally too overwhelming for the little ones. The "vastness" makes them feel insecure. You will notice they will seek teh "safest" part of the cage even if that sacrifices proper climate. I recommend slowly increasing cage size as they mature. Good question btw!
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1.1.0 Green Tree Pythons
2.0.0 Ball Pythons
0.0.1 California King
2.0.0 Ball Pythons (pet sitting)