Zoo Med Excavator Clay Burrowing Substrate

All-natural clay substrate allows reptiles to dig tunnels and burrows just like they do in nature. Plus, clay holds its shape so burrows and tunnels won't collapse. You can also mold it to create multi-level terraces, hills, dens, and more - simply mix with water and mold. No added dyes, colors, or chemicals. 10-20 lbs satisfies 10-gallon terrarium, depending on size of burrows.

Great for Bearded Dragons, Uromastyx , Leopard Geckos, Sand Boas and other burowing snakes, swifts and spiny lizards, tarantulas, scorpions, and other reptiles that create or use burrows.

Please click on "More Information" for directions for use and cleaning.

1. Make sure that you have enough Excavator Clay Substrate to achieve the desired depth in your terrarium.
2. Moisten the clay in a bucket by adding 1-1/2 cups of water to each 5 pound bag of clay. Thoroughly mix the clay until a uniform consistency is achieved. Place the moistened clay in your terrarium, forming hills, terraces, and other features. Use common household items like water bottles and balloons to create dens, burrows, and tunnels. Once the desired terrain is achieved, pat the clay to compact it while it is still moist.
3. Allow clay to partially dry overnight before removing tools used to create burrows and tunnels.
4. Reptiles can be placed in the terrarium when the clay is partially dry or at least dry on the surface. Drying time will depend on the ambient temperature. Many reptile species will continue to dig burrows and tunnels to create a truly naturalistic habitat. If your reptiles are natural diggers, you can let them do all the work and create their own burrows and tunnels. Your reptiles may need time to adjust to their new habitat before they start to dig and burrow in the clay.
5. Periodic misting with a water bottle can help the clay maintain its shape and can help in achieving the desired humidity level for various reptile species.
6. To change the shape of the terrain, remove all reptiles from the terrarium. Add water, mix, and mold the clay until the desired affect is achieved. If clay is too hard to mix, allow water to soak into clay before remixing.

Directions for cleaning:

• Spot clean substrate as necessary. If the substrate becomes heavily soiled, or if a foul odor persists, replace with new substrate.
• Do not rinse the substrate under running water as this will remove the clay and the substrate will not be moldable.

Warning:

• Not for use with under-tank heaters (thick and/or dense substrate may cause excess heat to build up).
• Avoid getting wet Excavator substrate on clothes or any household items as staining may occur.
• Place your reptile's food in a feeding dish to avoid accidental ingestion of substrate, which may cause impaction.