First ball python!!

Hi all! I got my very first ball python hatchling today! I don't have him quite yet, picking him up on Tuesday. He is a very beautiful friendly pastel. Gorgeous coloring on this guy! In the process of setting his tank up. I have a heat pad getting started and paper towel substrate in a 10 gallon tank. I don't have a thermostat, but I will get one if I need it. The label on the heat pad (zoomed) said I shouldn't need one unless it's a really big tank or if my house gets to be 26c which it definitely does not, being in a basement and all. Also, the guy at the petstore ( local exotic petstore, one of a kind, great helpful knowledgeable staff, this guy is extremely kind and helpful) pointed me to the right direction as of brands, and said he has never had a problem with zoomed or exo terra heat pads with them getting overheated. He also told me to use paper towel as a substrate, because he said once there was a boa there and a piece of aspen got stuck in its eye, causing it to go blind![emoji33] this also proves he's not just trying to make money off of me and sell me anything he possibly can. He even told me to go to petsmart for hides and accessories because they are cheaper;) anyways, I'm super pumped about this little fella! He's very friendly as well. There was also a female, but she was quite timid and shy.


2 whites tree frogs

Welcome and congrats!
now regarding the UTH, you can spend $35 on a thermostat and reside in the knowledge that your snake will always be safe, or you can gamble and ride on the fact that your heat pad will do fine unregulated, and if burned, your vet visit might cost around $200 for a burn treatment. Your choice.

About aspen: although paper towels is perfectly fine, aspen is alright also. If you look at my best birthday ever thread my terrarium setup for a blue tongue skink is there. It uses aspen, but aspen made for reptiles. It is not sharp aspen shreds, more like aspen pieces. The person you are talking to may be talking about rabbit intended aspen, much thinner shredded wood. That has a chance of hurting a reptile.

Sorry if I came off mean sounding, but that thermostat is pretty much a must.
Anyways welcome!
EDIT: spelling

Yes, I know there's a lot said about thermostats, as I said I will for sure get one of its needed. Oh, and the aspen was for reptiles. I know it's completely safe most of the time, but honestly paper towel is easier and completely safe! I live in Canada, so temps can get pretty low. So as for a thermostat, well I guess we will see!:)

You don't sound mean at all, by the way. I mean, you should go on a frog forum and holy! People are extremely opinionated! I find this forum to be much more relaxed and accepting, rather than judgement all and just plain rude. And thanks for the welcome! I will def post pics when I get him on Tuesday!


2 whites tree frogs

He's quite stunning. Either he just finished a shed a few days ago, or he's just plain gorgeous! The colors are so vibrant!


2 whites tree frogs

Good luck with your heating pad. I went that route and had an almost $100 vet bill added on to a $200 snake, plus I had to take more time time to give it oral meds, and wipe it's belly down every with a topical med that smelled like oysters. It wasn't a real bad burn, but It's nothing I would be willing to put another snake through. I also had a ZooMed. It's in the garbage now.

Yes, but according to your profile you live in Florida, am I right? I live in Alberta, and my snake is staying in my basement, so I'm honestly not worried. I read the instructions multiple times and It said if your house gets up to 26 c it will overheat. My house, even in the summer never gets that hot. Also, I was reading reviews on the zoomed heat pad, and I noticed in 2011-2012 the reviews were horrible. But, in 2013-2014, reviews are great! Very interesting observation I must say. Again, thanks for not being rude or judge mental. I really appreciate it!


2 whites tree frogs
1 ball python
1 cavalier King Charles spaniel
1 boxer
1 horse

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Originally Posted by gameonpython

Yes, but according to your profile you live in Florida, am I right? I live in Alberta, and my snake is staying in my basement, so I'm honestly not worried. I read the instructions multiple times and It said if your house gets up to 26 c it will overheat. My house, even in the summer never gets that hot. Also, I was reading reviews on the zoomed heat pad, and I noticed in 2011-2012 the reviews were horrible. But, in 2013-2014, reviews are great! Very interesting observation I must say. Again, thanks for not being rude or judge mental. I really appreciate it!


2 whites tree frogs
1 ball python
1 cavalier King Charles spaniel
1 boxer
1 horse

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Everyone on this forum is going to tell you to get a thermostat. Just get the Hydrofarm thermostat, and you'll be set. http://www.amazon.com/Hydrofarm-MTPR.../dp/B000NZZG3S
Seriously, if the heat pad is heating and it gets up to even 96 degrees for long periods of time, that could cause BRAIN DAMAGE to your snake. I have 2 snakes and 2 tanks, and 2 thermostats, and basically 2 of everything. Thermostats are equally as important as heat pads or lamps themselves. Do yourself and your snake a favor and get one. You'll be reaching into the tank ALL THE TIME to check the temps of the heat pad and that will stress your snake out, and you'll get really stressed out if it reads too hot. At the very least, get a dimmer, but a thermostat provides peace of mind (And will lower your electric bill).

Again, I'm in Canada. I can't even get that here. Also,why would I need to reach into the tank to feel the temp when I will have a thermometer? I am quite new to all this, but I honestly like to experiment a bit, try different things, just see what works best in my cold environment lol


2 whites tree frogs
1 ball python
1 cavalier King Charles spaniel
1 boxer
1 horse

I will add my voice to the choir. I live in ND, which is a state that has the dubious honor of receiving all of Canada's cold air. I accidentally plugged my UTH into the outlet instead of the regulator, and the temp immediately skyrocketed. Luckily I was just getting everything set back up after a full tank clean, so I caught it early, but it was just proof that the UTH gets much hotter than is safe when unregulated

Well I mean, as I've said before, I'm gonna try it out. But tomorrow morning when I can get an accurate reading, if it's sky high I will get a thermostat for sure. And also, for any of you who are concerned, my snake isn't actually in the tank, he is on hold at the petstore as I wanted to make sure everything is regulated for him. So don't worry guys! Nobody's at risk here!;)


2 whites tree frogs
1 ball python
1 cavalier King Charles spaniel
1 boxer
1 horse

Shamri, thanks for acknowledging that I'm in Canada! Lol


2 whites tree frogs
1 ball python
1 cavalier King Charles spaniel
1 boxer
1 horse

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Originally Posted by gameonpython

Again, I'm in Canada. I can't even get that here. Also,why would I need to reach into the tank to feel the temp when I will have a thermometer? I am quite new to all this, but I honestly like to experiment a bit, try different things, just see what works best in my cold environment lol


2 whites tree frogs
1 ball python
1 cavalier King Charles spaniel
1 boxer
1 horse

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If you're using a UTH, you need to check the temps of the bottom of the tank. Underbelly heat should be 88-91, but the ambient air temperature on the hot side is totally different. Ideally, that should be 85 and up to 91 ish, and the cold side should be above 78-80. I use digital thermometers to read the ambient air temperatures. I use a thermostat for my UTH, but I use an actual laser thermometer to check the temps of the top of the substrate, and then I check the temps of the lower glass to make sure that the snake can't burn themselves. If its too hot or too cold, I can adjust my thermostat accordingly and I know that I'm not going to burn my snake. I know you want to experiment and see what works best for you, but in the end you're going to need a thermostat. Every snake owner gets one eventually. I decided to get mine about 2 weeks after getting a snake because the dimmer I was using on the UTH wasn't regulating the temps well enough and it was either too hot or too cold. Any snake enthusiast will tell you to get one. Take it from experienced BP owners to go buy yourself a thermostat.

Thank you for your input. Yes I'm aware of the temps needed. Another trick I've heard- if it's too hot for you to put your hand on, it's too hot for your snake. I've been checking it every hour or so since I set it up, it's doing good so far. Right now I only have a analog thermometer,( yeah I know they suck) but I will pick up a real digital one on Tuesday.


2 whites tree frogs
1 ball python
1 cavalier King Charles spaniel
1 boxer
1 horse

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Originally Posted by gameonpython

Thank you for your input. Yes I'm aware of the temps needed. Another trick I've heard- if it's too hot for you to put your hand on, it's too hot for your snake. I've been checking it every hour or so since I set it up, it's doing good so far. Right now I only have a analog thermometer,( yeah I know they suck) but I will pick up a real digital one on Tuesday.


2 whites tree frogs
1 ball python
1 cavalier King Charles spaniel
1 boxer
1 horse

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that's a horrible and inaccurate way to check your snake's conditions. Like I said, 95 degrees or above can cause BRAIN DAMAGE. Your UTH could basically cook your snake alive!

Did you even read my entire post?


2 whites tree frogs
1 ball python
1 cavalier King Charles spaniel
1 boxer
1 horse

Quote:

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Originally Posted by gameonpython

Did you even read my entire post?


2 whites tree frogs
1 ball python
1 cavalier King Charles spaniel
1 boxer
1 horse

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Yes. Checking everything by hand and using an analog thermometer are both incredibly inaccurate. I have analog and digital thermometers, and the analog one is way off.

Since at the moment you've only got an analog thermometer (and since you don't have your snake yet) when you check the temperature of your under tank heater place the thermometer directly on top of the glass in the bottom of your tank where your UTH is. Not on the side of the tank above where its at. It will give you a more accurate reading.

It's good that you're trying to get everything dialed in first. Nice to see.

Yes I'm aware of the inaccuracy of an analog. I am going to get a digital! Yes i do have it directly on the glass, but thanks for the tip salt!


2 whites tree frogs
1 ball python
1 cavalier King Charles spaniel
1 boxer
1 horse

Quote:

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Originally Posted by gameonpython

Yes I'm aware of the inaccuracy of an analog. I am going to get a digital! Yes i do have it directly on the glass, but thanks for the tip salt!


2 whites tree frogs
1 ball python
1 cavalier King Charles spaniel
1 boxer
1 horse

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well. I have done and said everything I can do. I sincerely hope you don't cause any irreversible damage to the snake, and I hope you don't burn it. good luck.

I'm not going to damage my snake! How many times do I have to say that if it gets too hot I will get a thermostat? Also, I am getting a digital thermometer, I just don't have one yet! And no one is in danger here, the snake is still at the petstore, completely safe and happy. I'm not sure why you are getting so concerned about the care I will be providing, reed12321.


2 whites tree frogs
1 ball python
1 cavalier King Charles spaniel
1 boxer
1 horse

Quote:

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Originally Posted by gameonpython

I'm not going to damage my snake! How many times do I have to say that if it gets too hot I will get a thermostat? Also, I am getting a digital thermometer, I just don't have one yet! And no one is in danger here, the snake is still at the petstore, completely safe and happy. I'm not sure why you are getting so concerned about the care I will be providing, reed12321.


2 whites tree frogs
1 ball python
1 cavalier King Charles spaniel
1 boxer
1 horse

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because the "care" you are providing is already set up for failure. Seriously. get a thermostat and digital thermometers. Your snake will be happier.

I AM GOING TO GET A DIGITAL THERMOMETER.


2 whites tree frogs
1 ball python
1 cavalier King Charles spaniel
1 boxer
1 horse

I WILL BUY A THERMOSTAT IF/WHEN NEEDED.


2 whites tree frogs
1 ball python
1 cavalier King Charles spaniel
1 boxer
1 horse

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Originally Posted by gameonpython

I WILL BUY A THERMOSTAT IF/WHEN NEEDED.


2 whites tree frogs
1 ball python
1 cavalier King Charles spaniel
1 boxer
1 horse

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Agreeing to buy a BP is when you needed to buy a thermostat.

Reed12321, I would really appreciate if you don't reply to this post because you don't seem to be understanding and I don't want to cause any conflict. To me that's not what being a reptile owner is about. I like it to be a fun, relaxed, happy experience. So please don't reply anymore if that's okay with you.


2 whites tree frogs
1 ball python
1 cavalier King Charles spaniel
1 boxer
1 horse

I don't think you are being rude or anything, you just don't seem to be understanding. That's completely okay, I just don't want conflict.


2 whites tree frogs
1 ball python
1 cavalier King Charles spaniel
1 boxer
1 horse

At the least, go to Home Depot and pick up a lamp dimmer(rheostat) and the temp gun or acurite thermostat before you get the snake. UTHs can get up to 120 degrees if unregulated and that will easily burn your snake especially on glass. If your snake gets a burned belly, you are gonna really be in for some cash as vets aren't cheap by any stretch. Think most people here are just to help and really just don't want to see someone "fail" or make a mistake that can costs hundreds of dollars plus all the stress of having a sick/injured animal.

Oh for sure I am definitely making sure that my enclosure and heating is perfect before I pick up my new buddy:) I totally agree reed12321 was trying to help, but I seemed to be repeating myself and I don't want to get annoyed and say something I will regret.


2 whites tree frogs
1 ball python
1 cavalier King Charles spaniel
1 boxer
1 horse

Its ok. People repeating things is annoying and all, and I know you have great intentions for the snake, its just when friction builds up between 2 people like you and Reed, its better just to press ignore on eachother and cool off.
Nice to see you can handle some frustration here.
no seriously!

Our body temp is 98...90-95 degrees will feel cool to our touch. Using your hand to measure temperature is not a good idea. If it feels warm to our hand it is too hot for the snake. Just saying [emoji3] don't get mad, I'm just sharing something pointed out to me. [emoji216]


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Oh yeah of course! I just meant if it is burning hot for me to touch, it's definitely too hot for my snake.


2 whites tree frogs
1 ball python
1 cavalier King Charles spaniel
1 boxer
1 horse

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Originally Posted by gameonpython

Oh yeah of course! I just meant if it is burning hot for me to touch, it's definitely too hot for my snake.


2 whites tree frogs
1 ball python
1 cavalier King Charles spaniel
1 boxer
1 horse

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With all due respect, if it's burning hot for you to touch, it's already WELL past the point of being able to burn your snake. As pointed out, going by touch is not an accurate measure of whether it's hot enough to burn your snake. If someone asks me the number one husbandry item to get, it will always be a quality thermostat, no matter how cold the environment you live in and where the snake will be.

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Originally Posted by rabernet

With all due respect, if it's burning hot for you to touch, it's already WELL past the point of being able to burn your snake. As pointed out, going by touch is not an accurate measure of whether it's hot enough to burn your snake. If someone asks me the number one husbandry item to get, it will always be a quality thermostat, no matter how cold the environment you live in and where the snake will be.

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Gameonpython - I'd like to think if a forum administrator is telling you to get a thermostat, then it is probably a good idea. I hate to say I told you so, but your BP's health and well-being is our number 1 priority. Buy a thermostat.

:confusd:
I just don't understand why you seem so resistent to get a thermostat. You say if I need one, it isn't an "if." I'm caring for a blue tongue skink, one of the hardiest reptiles alive, and I still use a thermostat. If you don't have the money for one, you never had the money for a reptile in the first place.

Seriously, Canada Shmanada, just buy one.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by gameonpython

I'm not going to damage my snake! How many times do I have to say that if it gets too hot I will get a thermostat? Also, I am getting a digital thermometer, I just don't have one yet! And no one is in danger here, the snake is still at the petstore, completely safe and happy. I'm not sure why you are getting so concerned about the care I will be providing, reed1232

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I think it is great that you are going to have it all set up way before you make the animal purchase. That is fantastic. I also think what you are not considering, and what most people fear for you snakes sake is... that a unregulated uth that may be at the perfect temp now can, and chances are good they will fail at some point. The fact that you live in Canada and I live in Florida mostly means your snake will probably stay on that uth more than mine. Let's say you purchase the snake and all is well. Months or a year, maybe even 3 from now, about the time you go to sleep your uth goes haywire and runs up to 110-120 (f). You will find yourself with a slow cooked/burned snake that may not be able breed if it does live. Then when you ask, "What do I do about a belly burn?". Most of the people you ask will say..."Start by getting a good t-stat"... I hope this explains the reaction you are hearing from most now, and that you seriously take what you have been told by the experiences that have been shared to you. Everyone here wants you to enjoy the hobby and have a snake that lives a long happy life.

So, to all of you thinking that I'm going to cook my snake, I'm actually having trouble keeping the tank warm enough.


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I bought a zoomed uth a month ago. Unregulated my gun said 111 degrees after an hour. Really a thermostat is your most important tool. That and an RI gun. Petco ppl are straight outta high school and know nothing. The one by my house had BPs with horrible sheds and humidity sitting at 0%. There is a reason everyone on here is so adamant about regulating that pad. Thermometers will not tell you how hot the pad is and remember we run 98 degrees so just bc it feels warm to you dosent mean it's not too hot. Also the uth will NOT be able to tell Ur in Canada and it's cold. They don't work that way.

Not just petco ppl but most pet stores don't have a clue unfortunately. They told me I didn't need a uth too. Acted like they didn't have a clue what I was talking about. Thank god for this forum. I'm sure Wiz thanks you guys. I follow Ur advice and my first BP is healthy, happy, and hasn't missed a meal.

Yeah so as I said, I can't keep it warm enough, let alone getting too hot.


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The UTH or the ambient? The UTH keeps a part of the tank bottom warm only, not the air. Heat lamps warm the air around them.


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I use heat tape and a 30$ hydrogarden thermometer. If you are having trouble heating the air, get a cheap electric heater and set it to 80. I have my rooms ambient air at 80. With the heat tape this gets my a warm side of 89 and a cool side of 81.

I'm with calmolly. I feel a property functioning UTH should have no problem reaching over 100 deg. on its own BUT it won't heat the air around it. Which is why most people supplement with a CHE or other heat bulb from the top, which heats the general tank/tub to around 80 but doesn't act as the basking spot.

Because you're in a basement you'll probably need multiple heat sources. UTH is for a belly hot spot only.

The UTH. also, would it be a good idea to pick up a heat lamp as well?


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I also have a small space heater, would this work?


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That's exactly what I was talking about. Keep it so your room stays at 75 80. Make sure to get a thermostat for the under heat. Some use room temperature to augment their temperature. But yeah. Space heater for a few hours on few hours off. That's what I do.

Okay cool. I kinda figured I would be needing an extra heat source, considering I'm in a cold Alberta basement lol.


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Observe humidity when running it though. It will dry the air out a bit more than usual. I spray 1 pump of a hand Sprayer ever day onto a part of their tubs and it keeps humidity just right.

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Originally Posted by gameonpython

So, to all of you thinking that I'm going to cook my snake, I'm actually having trouble keeping the tank warm enough.


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Again - your snake isn't llikely going to be lying in some random place in the tank, but right over the UTH area. A UTH wouldn't be enough to get your ambient temperatures up, but even WITH the ambient temps low, the snake can still get burned by laying directly on an unregulated heat pad, with or without substrate.

If my house is 50 degrees, but the eye of my stove is boiling water, it's not going to heat my house, but sure as hell will burn my hand.

Not sure why you're so resistant to the idea of getting a proper safety equipment item for your snake.

In the end, it's your snake. You've been given sound advice - it's up to you whether you choose to listen to the experience and knowledge of those who have been keeping ball pythons for some time.

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14...23721a16c7.jpg

This is my setup. I have heat lamps, UTH's and a space heater for each tank. I also have my thermostat for my apartment set at 74.


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Just to update everyone, Marshall is happily curled up in his hide:)


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