Temperature measurements...

I have a glass tank setup for my BP. I am using UTH and a thermostat to control the heat. It has worked very well so far.
Today I bought an infrared thermometer to check the temperature on the hot side. I noticed that the surface of the bedding (Aspen) is around the 90 degrees, but the surface of the glass below is a couple of degrees higher. My BP tends to push the bedding away and lay directly on the glass.
Is this a problem?
Should I turn the temperature down?


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If the glass is only getting to about 92-95 degrees, there shouldn't be a problem with leaving it as is. Not sure what the threashold for a snake getting burnt is though so someone who does know should chime in on that.

I agree. As long as the glass doesnt reach above 95° i wouldnt worry.

Just took a temp gun reading of the palm of my left hand...93.4 degrees. I haven't melted a snake yet ;)

Thank you all.
I wasn't worried about the snake getting burnt, just wondering if the temperature was too high. I guess it will choose the hide in the cold part of the tank, if it is too hot. I will keep it as it is.

Another question about temperature. Should I let it drop in the hot end during the night? I have read some caresheets saying you should - others say you should not?
What do you do?


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There is no need to do a night time temp drop for Ball Pythons. Just provide them with a constant temp gradient, and they will do the rest.

Like Slim said, no need for a night drop. My temps slide between 90 and 94 with no issues, it that's usually because we have the house heat on during the day, so all ambients will slide up a bit naturally.

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