Typical newbie questions here

This IS the time of year they shut down feeding. I expected things to return to normal but am told probably 2 more months of no eating is possible. You are going to want to try some new methods with your tank. I use a 40 GAL. breeder tank, but have taken several steps to improve it. I have wrapped all the sides and part of the bottom with an insulated thermofoil type product called Reflectix Insulation. The front view is the only area not covered. As mentioned above damp towels under foil or in my case Reflectix, will keep humidity up.

I can keep high 70's to 80 when needed just by using towels against the screen top covered by the thermofoil with another dry towel over it. I have humidity gauges on both sides in the tank, and thermometers on both sides. Accurite is also what I use. I larger water bowel will also increase humidity.

You MUST have a thermostat. Don't feel stupid for not having one. I bought my son a Royal last May, thought I had the research all done, came here and found out I had TONS left to learn and the Thermostat was the 1st thing I was told to buy. Just get one (T-stat) and you will solve so many problems and benefit the snake.

The tank should not smell. If it does it needs cleaning ASAP. Waste should be removed as soon as you smell or see it. Spot clean your aspen, but at 30 days re-lay a fresh bed of it after a total tank disinfecting clean up.

It's late a I probably left some things out, but don't sweat the eating as this is typical behavior for this time of year.

For other details, a guy named Aaron (Serpent Merchant) has laid out an excellent set of useful tips for tank setup and thermostat setup.

If you are looking at new housing I'd say skip the glass tank and check into some of the caging threads here.

Use the search feature and you can find a lot of info. Good luck.

Thanks, all, for the tips and suggestions! I'm thinking I might build my own tank for him, since a lot of times I look at the ones in the pet stores and online and then see the price and think "I can build that for way less!"

If I get out tonight, I'll pick up a humidity/temp indicator and also some Eco-Earth substrate. I'll also try covering the top of the cage.

Also wanted to add that my snake doesn't mind being handled right after feeding. Definitely a cool snake!

You're welcome! Doing at home builds can be frustrating but equally rewarding. Post pics of whatever you come up with. Even though your snake appears calm after eating, a general advisement is to leave them alone for 24 hours after eating to ensure the meal is "settled" well in the stomach. Just a tip