I'm a soon to be proud owner of a African Rock Python (courtesy of one of BP.net's own forum members), and I've been building up a cage for the past few days while I wait its arrival.

Using Melamine (well melamine coated on both sides, extra durable particle board core) sheets that are 3/4" thick, and securing it pretty well with a front panel Lexan plexiglass locking door/window, I've constructed a nice 7x3x3 habitat for the new friend coming very soon!

There's only one problem... lol, I have thermostats, tempguns, etc... but I have no idea on what to buy to heat this behemoth of a cage.

After the purchase of the pet, the purchase for all equipment needed to build the enclosure (yes, melamine isnt cheap, nor is plexiglass), my budget for the build has twindled down to a mere $120 left, which I'm sure can get plenty of heating equipment... I'm not just sure what to buy.

Any suggestions folks? I'm not sure stickon heatpads will sufficie as it does for my ball pythons sterilite cages, lol.

I also need to make sure, and even though it is coated with melamine (which provides some heat resistance), that it doesnt catch the enclosure on fire and harm the little guy (well, big guy...)