Re: what does it mean to...
Well first cooling is an option but not everyone does it.
When you do you cool both males and females.
As far as when and how much and how long it varies from one person to another the best is to experiment around and see what works for you.
First season I used this specific calendar http://www.8ballpythons.com/journal/...ngcalendar.htm
This year I only lowered the temps on the warm side and only at night. (Lowering the temps to 80-82 degrees). I did so starting in September and I started warming back up last week.