Hi all! I'm hoping to own a ball python soon (I've wanted one for years). I've been trying to get an enclosure properly set up for a potential snake before I actually buy one.
I live in a northern climate and it's been a bit difficult getting temperatures up to what's needed since the ambient temperature in my place is usually pretty cool, but I think I'm close now. I'm using a combination of a heat mat under the tank, and a 60 watt ceramic heat emitter to raise temps on one side.
I have a few questions that I don't typically see in care guides though. Can you help me?
- While testing I've noticed the heat tends to fluctuate. It can change between 87-89 F. I know the high end needs to be very specific, is that a problem?
- The plastic hide I have set up on the warm end can sometimes rise up to 92-93F on the outside surface. I know BP's can be sensitive to temperatures and heat rocks are a bad idea for them--would this be too warm/risk burning as well?
- Any suggestions for getting a thermostat sensor to stay in place in the tank? I know tape isn't OK. I also know the snake will knock it around if it's just sitting there unrestrained.
Thanks in advance for any suggestions you can give me, all (and sorry if these questions are silly--I'm a little nervous about getting the details right!). I want to make sure any ball python I get has a safe and happy enclosure to go to before I buy one.
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