Hello everyone,

I just got my first Ball Python 4 days ago and I have some questions regarding maintaining the proper temperature gradient in his tank. The tank is glass with a screen top and measures 30" long by 12" wide by 12" high. I am currently using newspaper for substrate. I have an undertank heating pad on the warm side, supplemented by a 100 w ceramic heater above, and a 75 w infrared spot on the cool side. Assuming the tank thermometers are correct, (I plan to pick up a digital thermometer hygrometer today after reading posts on this site) the tank is between 80 and 85F on the cool side and slightly over 90 on the hot side appoximately 1" above the floor of the cage. My Question is, does it seem like I am putting too much heat into this cage? The snake seems to be behaving normally at this point-- he uses hides on both sides and seems most active around dusk and dawn. I have pretty much left him undisturbed aside from changing his water daily.

I would really appreciate any input.

Thanks!