confession: i messed up big time...

awesome, thanks liv! and yes, its monitored by a thermostat. i have a thermometer, but like i said before, that is just to make sure i am getting correct readings on my thermostat.

An easy trick with screen top cages that loose humidity...... Try Glad Press N Seal seal wrap over the screen. You can lift up a corner as needed to regulate humidity.That towel is doing what its soposed to, absorb moisture. You can put the towel over the wrap to help with heat loss.
I have found this stuff godly when it comes to cages with screen.

The poster above me has it right. You need Glad Press N' Seal over the cage to hold in humidity. make sure you have a corner of it open to allow oxygen flow. You can find press n' seal right next to cling wrap.

Paper towels should be fine. your thermometer probe will tell you if your temp is too high.

As for the mites, Provent-A-Mite is a miracle worker. They will be gone in no time if you use it. Just do a google search to find the product (yes, it's "provent" not prevent). This can be a dangerous chemical for your snake if you do not air out the tank enough after applying it, so follow the directions you get with the P-A-M.

As for the respiratory infection, your vet will help you out with that, so use the medications he prescribes!

Good luck!!!!!