Okay so I've recently learned the hard lesson of glass tanks sucking at maintaining humidity and temps.

Gave up on that and ordered a RhinoRAXXX from Boaphile Plastics. I'm sure you all know of the long wait times.

So, in the mean time I've got to figure some things out.

I had no idea you had to use a thermostat for under tank heaters (thank you reptile "expert" at the pet store ) Luckily, before I even plugged them in, I did my own research and read about the dangers of using any UTH without a thermostat. My VE thermostat will be here in a few days and am wondering a few things.

1. Will my snakes become ill from not having belly heat for a few days if I use a heat light in the mean time?

2. Should I just plug in the UTH (zoomed brand) and put like 4-5 inches of cypress mulch ontop to try to make it less hot?

And as for the humidity...

I use cypress mulch, and have sphagnum moss throughout. I also mist 3 times a day and still can't get it to stay where I need it.

Today I bought some Eco Earth and a small one room humidifier to see if that will help. After this, I can't seem to think of any other things to try.

I've been reading about wrapping the screen tops in everything from plastic to aluminum, but with my UTH not plugged in, I'm afraid to run a heat lamp ontop of plastic or foil.

Any words of wisdom, tricks and tips, or just advice would be much appreciated!