Choosing the right snake cave can significantly impact your reptile's well-being and your own cleaning routine. This article compares four popular brands – Exo Terra, Pflueger's, Zilla, and a surprising contender, a model train tunnel – to help you navigate the world of reptile hides. We delve into the pros and cons of each, considering factors like size, weight, ease of cleaning, and overall suitability for different snake species and sizes. From the classic designs to innovative new styles, we examine the features that make each cave stand out (or fall short).This comprehensive comparison will guide you through the key differences between these snake caves, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses. Whether you prioritize ease of cleaning, internal space, durability, or budget-friendliness, we'll help you determine which cave best suits your snake's needs and your own preferences. Read on to discover which cave reigns supreme in our ultimate showdown of reptile hideaways!
Pros And Cons
- Lightweight
- Lots of room inside
- Inexpensive
- Textured surface may make cleaning difficult
- Small legs/nubs underneath might pose a hazard to reptiles
- May need modification to be a suitable snake hide
- Lightweight
- Domed, providing ample internal space
- Rough exterior for shedding, smooth interior for easy cleaning
- Mid-range to expensive pricing depending on retailer
- Small lip on the inside may be difficult to clean completely.
- Naturalistic look
- Easy to clean (smooth inside and outside)
- Mid-range price
- Large size is restrictive in internal space
- Naturalistic look
- Lightweight
- Easy to clean (smooth inside and outside)
- Domed, allowing a lot of internal space
- Slightly higher price than usual on Amazon
Read more: Top 5 Turtle Terrariums: Reptile Habitats Reviewed
Exo Terra Reptile Caves
Exo Terra offers two styles: the older, classic design and a newer, improved version. Both come in medium and large sizes. The classic cave boasts a smooth, easy-to-clean surface, making hygiene a breeze. Its naturalistic look is appealing, and the medium size offers ample interior space.
The larger classic cave, while heavier, is still manageable. However, its flatter design restricts internal space compared to the medium. The newer Exo Terra design also offers more interior space due to a domed shape. Both sizes provide plenty of room, and the smooth interior ensures easy cleaning.
Pflueger's Rock Caverns
Pflueger's offers rock caves in small and medium sizes. While sturdy and providing a rough texture ideal for shedding, these caves are exceptionally heavy and porous. This makes them difficult to clean thoroughly, especially the crevices.
The thick walls significantly reduce the internal space. The heavy weight is a considerable drawback, especially for those using rack systems. While the material may retain heat well, making it suitable for basking reptiles, the cleaning difficulties and limited space ultimately outweigh this benefit.
Zilla Caves: Desert Series Rock Den and New Rock Den
Zilla offers two distinct cave styles. The Desert Series Rock Den is a flat, unique design with two entrances. Its solid construction and thick walls, similar to Pflueger's, make it heavy but limit internal space. This makes it more suitable for smaller reptiles who prefer tight spaces.
The newer Zilla Rock Den, however, is a game-changer. Lightweight and highly domed, it provides ample interior space. Its textured exterior aids shedding while remaining easily cleanable, despite some minor crevices. This is an excellent choice for snakes of all sizes, especially growing ones.
Unexpected Contender: Model Train Tunnel
The Repti-Rock Plastic Rockery Train Tunnel, initially designed for model trains, is a surprisingly good snake hide. Its lightweight design, domed shape, and ample internal space are major advantages.
However, its textured surface can make cleaning challenging. Removing the small legs and plugging one end for better security are recommended modifications. Despite this, its low price and suitability make it a worthwhile consideration.
Conclusion: Which Snake Cave Reigns Supreme?
While all caves offer unique pros and cons, the Zilla new style Rock Den emerges as the top contender. Its lightweight design, ample interior space, easy cleaning, and relatively affordable price make it a highly versatile choice for snakes of all sizes. Exo Terra's newer style is a close second thanks to its superior interior space.
Pflueger's and the Zilla Desert Series Rock Den, while sturdy, suffer from limited internal space and cleaning difficulties. The model train tunnel, while inexpensive and spacious, requires minor modifications. Overall, consider your reptile's size, your cleaning preferences, and your budget when making your final decision.