Thermostat/thermometer different temps?

When the actual (thermometer measured) temperature is higher than your thermostat's set point it means that the probe is likely not in contact with the warmest part of your heating device. The thermostat is probably starting to read the cooler air temperatures around the heating device and trying to make up for it by sending additional power to your heater. My first check would be thermostat position and/or security (make sure it's where it's supposed to be and that it doesn't move). If that all seems good, as KMG eluded to above, it could also be that your substrate is acting as an insulator. You don't want to have too much down otherwise it will start to trap heat underneath it.

Keep thinking it cant get under it. They are masters of tight places. You never want to have an area that presents a dangerous situation no matter how much you believe the snake can not reach it.

That said, having to much paper down can also make the uth have to pump out to much heat to reach the top layer. If that happens the area under the newspaper can get very hot and be a dangerous zone. If this is happening you may need to lower the number of sheets you use.

Considering my snake has issues slithering in a straight line at times I kinda doubt he will get under there, but we will see lol. As I said taping it in the middle has made it accurate.

Thanks for the advice!

Believe me or not. Just make sure the temps under the paper is not to hot just in case. I have been a member here a short time compared to some but still have seen plenty of people that did not believe things that ended up putting their snakes at risk or causing them harm.

Considering the hot area is 95 at most I am pretty sure he is safe even if he finds his way under there :)