Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I've always kept my indigos in large, window fronted enclosures which are difficult to clean. What say the brethren (to quote Vic) about keeping them in large, windowless rack systems. I'm seriously considering switching, for hygienic, and ease of husbandry reasons.

Jason, some folks do indeed use drawers, and they work well, as you noted, easy to clean, efficient use of space etc. Some large tubs, used by python and boa breeders are a available that might meet your needs. However, when I last looked, it was difficult to find approx. 6' x 30" floor dimension that I favor.

Having tried many systems over 45 years of herp keeping, I have not gone to racks because I enjoy viewing my adult indigos on a frequent basis and watching behaviors. I do utilize drawer systems for juveniles and find them efficient, especially when dealing with a dozen or more neonates.

Years ago pioneer herpetoculturalist Bob Applegate and others made some really nice enclosures utilizing a standard cage with a false bottom with an artificial burrow that accessed a drawer below. It was a big hit with the Lampropeltis crowd, and I think it would work great with Drys. It is well known they utilize burrows, and it would be fun to see them emerge from the pipe way to bask, feed, etc.

The more I reflect on it, the more I enjoy seeing behaviors as allowed by a larger cage, and drawer systems restrict such observations, basking, eliminate climbing etc. The snakes do just fine in either, but my enjoyment in observing them is enhanced by providing longish standard glass fronted enclosures. Vic