This review delves into the Exo Terra Coconut Husk, evaluating its suitability as reptile bedding. We unpack an 8-ounce bag, examining the product's initial texture, size, and scent. The hydration process, crucial for proper use, is detailed, noting the absorption rate and significant expansion of the husk pieces. Particular attention is paid to the final texture, assessing its suitability for different reptile sizes and burrowing needs. The drying time is also considered, along with a comparison to other commercially available coconut substrates.Ultimately, this review provides a comprehensive assessment of the Exo Terra Coconut Husk, focusing on its practicality, cost-effectiveness, and overall aesthetic appeal as a natural-looking reptile bedding option. We analyze the pros and cons, considering the size and texture of the husk pieces in relation to different reptile species and their specific needs for burrowing and habitat enrichment. The review concludes with a recommendation based on the observed qualities and performance of the product.
Pros And Cons
- Cheaper to buy and make yourself than pre-made options.
- Expands after adding water.
- Larger chunks than preferred.
- Takes several days to dry completely.
- Dusty (based on prior experience with a different type of coconut bedding).
Read more: 5 Best Terrarium Beddings for Bearded Dragons
Unboxing and First Impressions
The Exo Terra Coconut Husk arrived in an 8-ounce bag. The packaging was simple but informative. Initial inspection revealed the husk to be comprised of larger, chunkier pieces than expected, unlike the finer, dusty coconut substrate I'd used previously.
The pieces appeared to be fairly uniform in size. There was a noticeable coconut scent. The overall texture seemed coarse and less uniform in size than expected; the color was a dark brown.
Unlike some pre-made substrates, this required hydration before use. The instructions recommended a specific water-to-husk ratio, but I opted for a more intuitive approach based on my experience.
Hydration and Expansion
I added water to the coconut husk, following a more casual approach than the instructions. The husk absorbed water readily, though the large pieces took a longer time to become completely saturated.
The expansion was significant, much more than I anticipated. The husk pieces grew considerably in size and increased in volume as they absorbed the water.
After several hours, the majority of the husk was thoroughly hydrated, though some of the larger pieces still needed more time.
Texture and Appearance
Once fully dry, the coconut husk pieces retained their size and shape. The texture is coarse, offering a good balance of structure and softness. The large pieces give a sense of natural habitat.
The color remained a consistent dark brown. The pieces were larger than anticipated, potentially creating large gaps in the bedding. This could be beneficial for burrowing reptiles but less suitable for small animals needing finer substrate.
Overall, the appearance is more 'natural' and less processed than some other coconut substrates; it mimics the texture and look of natural coconut husk.
Drying Process and Final Thoughts
Drying the coconut husk took longer than expected, spanning several days. Air drying was chosen, and the result was a product that was sufficiently dry and ready for use.
The final product offered a good balance of texture, providing suitable burrowing opportunities. While the large size might be a drawback for smaller animals, it is perfect for larger reptiles.
Ultimately, the Exo Terra Coconut Husk is a suitable bedding material for larger reptiles. It is cost-effective and eco-friendly with a more 'natural' look and feel compared to finely ground coconut bedding.