Heating question

[Edbean]

Hi, I just got a gorgeous ball python 2 weeks ago. I have a 10 gal with a heating pad, but I have a question. The breeder said just using the heating pad is good enough. He said not to use a light because it can overheat the snake... and since its nocturnal doesnt need any nutrients from it anyway. I have, however, read many husbandry tips that say yo use light for heat and for a day cycle.

Is this ok? I just want the best for my baby. Thank you!

[psycho]

Well you can use a heat lamp if the heat pad doesn't give the right temperature...but yeah snakes need a night & day cycle but with the light from your window should be enough...not pointing directly at the tank just daylight would be enough

[Spaniard]

You should be fine using only a UTH. However did this breeder recommend that you also use the UTH in conjunction with a thermostat or rheostat? These devices determine how hot the UTH will get and are one of the most important pieces of equipment.

As for the lamp it will suck the humidity out of the enclosure very quickly, which is why people prefer to meet husbandry requirements by using only a UTH.

As for the day night cycles, I keep my snakes in the basement with no light except from what comes through 2 small windows and they are fine.

Edit: Forgot to give you a

[MsPrada]

Also think about this:

Will that one heating pad keep the cool side air temp at the recommended 80 as well? I have a UTH on the warm side at 93. But without a lamp I can't get the other side of the tank at 80. And this is just a 10 gal. So some people say its best to get a UTH for the cool side to keep it at the right temp to, which is what I plan to do.

Welcome

[MsPrada]

Forgot to say, your home temperature will affect this. My place gets cold sometimes.

[blenderhead]

Also think about this:

Will that one heating pad keep the cool side air temp at the recommended 80 as well? I have a UTH on the warm side at 93. But without a lamp I can't get the other side of the tank at 80. And this is just a 10 gal. So some people say its best to get a UTH for the cool side to keep it at the right temp to, which is what I plan to do.

Welcome

Do you have the light looked up to a dimmer or something similar?

[MsPrada]

Nope, it keeps the temp right at 83 and doesnt change it, so I dont think I need one.

[Edbean]

ok thanks for the info and the welcome!!!

btw...I have a thermostat so she doesnt overheat.

thanks again!
-Ed-