My first Ball Python "Brutis" Heating problem

Okay, that would explain it.

Jim Smith

you need to get the temps and humidity better. start with the temp. yes most methods will lower your humidity, after you get your temps now comes the humidity.Try a larger water bowl more water = more humidity, you said you use a hide. they are also called humidity chambers. you can raise the humidity in the hide where your snake spends most of the time away. don't have to raise the entire tank, would be nice if you can. Don't go crazy with the water in the hide, you don't want the snake sitting in water or breathing too much humidity as this will cause problems too.
and those digital thermometers with the humidity and temp readings. they are not reliable. I have about 8 of them and if you put them side by side you will get different readings. more on the humidity readings. for the temp get a temp gun ( IR Thermometer ) they are not perfect but you will get a more precise reading. I have a fluke mini 62 ir thermometer that I got brand new off of the craigslist for what I would pay for a cheap one, so look around. it works great. If you get your humidity correct you will know when your snake sheds. I do use the humidity reading on the cheap thermometer and try to get a ball park range but the best test is the shedding of the snake.

This is a great and very helpful thread, I have been struggling the past two weeks with the same issues. By the way, uwanaknome, that is a wonderful looking python there!