Zoomed cavern kit

[Suzle87]

Lockdown boredom has got to me and I spotted this...
https://www.reptilecentre.com/zoo-med-c ... gIN1_D_BwE
I’m just wondering if anyone has used this? Is it safe? Do you think I could make removable hides etc with it instead of moulding It within the vivarium (as I’ve seen on how to videos)
All thoughts welcome, I need a project but nothing to technical cuz I’m not so good at things haha

[kayla990]

Haha interesting kit! Initial thoughts would be:

- It would be surprising if it can hold up against the strength of a determined Bluey
- Finding a tube/cave big enough that they don't get stuck vs. full tank size
- Personally, I would worry if they decided to sleep in the 'cave' for a day or two and I couldn't check on them (though, could likely make a separate 'lid', but would need to be careful it wouldn't collapse with the extra weight!)

I could see it working for smaller critters.. but for a Bluey... maybe have a look into PVC tubes Most are pet-safe if they aren't lined with anything, varied in size and can make a network of tunnels to use in or out of the tank (with the added bonus of being easy to clean and can add in blankets inside). Just a thought!

[Suzle87]

Haha interesting kit! Initial thoughts would be:

- It would be surprising if it can hold up against the strength of a determined Bluey
- Finding a tube/cave big enough that they don't get stuck vs. full tank size
- Personally, I would worry if they decided to sleep in the 'cave' for a day or two and I couldn't check on them (though, could likely make a separate 'lid', but would need to be careful it wouldn't collapse with the extra weight!)

I could see it working for smaller critters.. but for a Bluey... maybe have a look into PVC tubes Most are pet-safe if they aren't lined with anything, varied in size and can make a network of tunnels to use in or out of the tank (with the added bonus of being easy to clean and can add in blankets inside). Just a thought!

Great idea, Thankyou, so just any kind of plumbing tubes etc I can find on the net so long as they aren’t lined?

[kayla990]

Yep, I believe so! I think the safest types are the ones that are not flexible (as apparently they can use a different chemical process to make them bendy - they may still be fine if it lists the materials, but if in doubt don't use them!). Hopefully, most sites should list the recycling number. If getting specific on the materials, most sources say that high-density polyethylene (HDPE) that are recycled under #2 or #5 should be safe.

(Can peek at these sites for more info about the recycling codes: http://www.3reef.com/threads/reef-safe- ... cts.57828/ or http://spec-tanks.com/aquarium-safe-plastics/ ).

If you decide to use it inside the tank, don't put them directly under the heat lamp in case it begins to melt or become brittle over time.

Hope you're able to find some that can be delivered - most UK sites seem to sell them at 2 or 3m long.. Hope you've got a saw if so!

And.. just an extra thought - if you have access to a bamboo nursery that is also something that is a fully natural alternative (as oddly enough, we've got one nearby so there's a chance you might as well!). Can get some huge tubes that way