My sister went out to the woods behind our house and got a whole bunch of wild grape vines (1-3” round X 7-12 foot long) and I was thinking of getting some for Robin's cage (which is ALMOST finished!!!) I know the grape vines would be strong enough, heck I swing on them and I weigh 180! I’m thinking of weaving them together or just draping them around the cage. The only thing I’m really worried about is her trying to eat them, thus the reason for my post. So, do any of you bright individuals with vast reptile knowledge foresee any problems in this venture? Thanks Jade Also, what would be a good hide for an iguana? She’s gotten to the point where she disappears when people come over so I want to give her a good hiding place in the cage.
I have used wild grape vines and other "found" wood in many of my terrariums and vivariums. It should not be a problem as long as a few precautions are taken. Mainly, ensure that they are clean and free of any parasitic mites or other pests. This can be a problem if you have large populations of wild lizards. Honestly, I think that the risk of mites is greater from using store-bought vines or wood from pet stores that may have reptiles infected with mites. Clean with a mild bleach solution to disenfect and then dry thoroughly. Only complication that I have encountered, specifically with grape vine, is I have had woodboring beetles emerge from the wood, sometimes a year or more after being in the cage. These pose no risk. George
Thanks for the reply. I soaked the grape vines I gathered over night and have them hanging in the basement to dry. I think they’ll be a nice addition to the cages when it’s completed and I just wanted to make sure it’d be safe. Thanks again. Jadelizard
freeze first for a couple of hours - , soak in a mild bleach solution or rep care cleaner like ark klens - rinse well allow to dry naturally or in a low oven - you will have nuked everything
Safe Aerosol I've been told that if you want to be extra sure that your found wood is parasite/mite free, try spraying it with Callington's "Top of Descent" aircraft insecticide. Its perfectly safe for reptiles and mammals (insects and scorps are a huge NO!). Just make sure to leave it to dry for at least half an hour before putting it in the tank.
