What Kind of Heat do Brazilian Rainbow Boa's Need?

[RoseRed]

I know all snakes need a heat source, but I am wondering specifically what kind BRB's need. With snakes I usually hear they need UTH, but I want to make sure that is all a BRB needs. So BRB's need a heat lamp? UTH (I have read quite a few care sheets mention them, so I am pretty sure it is needed but I wanted to make sure)? Both? I know from looking at care sheets that the hot side should be 83. But is that air temp or/and uth temp? I know this sounds like an easy question, but I want to make sure all of my ducks are in a row so to speak. I already own a UTH (that fits the inclosure) and a heat lamp (put in storage).

Thanks for all of the help ^^

[The Serpent Merchant]

This is a common misconception, it doesn't matter how the heat is generated. A heat lamp will provide belly heat just like a UTH will. All that matters is that you are able to maintain the hot side temperature, cool side temperature, and proper humidity levels.

[RoseRed]

That is good to know! I know with my bloodred corn all she needs is UTH but I didn't want to assume that BRB's needs are the same. Also, the one time I did use a heat lamp it killed the humidity [in the same inclosure a month ago] (and mine is at 83% and has been for 48 hours thus far, I would to stay in that area).

[KMG]

It doesn't matter how the heat is generated (uth, lamp, both) as long s the right environment is created. I have my brb using lamps and uth. Warm hide is at 85 (surface) and the rest of the cage is high 70 to low 80(air).

[The Serpent Merchant]

UTH's are generally the better choice, but they have some downsides.

UTH's are only effective when the layer of substrate is 1/2" thick or less

UTH's do NOT increase the air temperature in the cage. This means that if the room gets colder than the cool side requirements of the snake in question you will need a heat lamp to increase the air temperature in the cage. (so for rainbow boas if the room drops below 75 degrees a heat lamp will be necessary)

[PyramidPythons]

Heat lamps will kill your humidity levels. I never use a heat lamp with Marius, I have only ever used a UTH set for 82F. These snakes actually are more comfortable in cooler temperatures, but they do need a moist/humid hide or two with which to retreat to if your enclosure is too dry. I use a couple of smaller tupperware tubs with an entry hole cut in the side and damp Sphagnum moss. If you do decide to use a heat lamp, be sure to provide the moss hides and don't stick them under the lamp (near the warm side is fine, but directly under will dry the moss out quickly and overheat the tub). In winter when it gets cold in my house, I often wrap a blanket around the warm side of Marius' enclosure and this keeps the ambient at a perfect level. Best of luck with your RB when you get it!