Hey all. First time snake owner here but have owned other reptiles before.

Currently I have this small (78g) snake in quite a big enclosure - I was told this is okay as long as the tank is sufficiently cluttered and the snake has plenty of small, secure hides at different parts of the temperature gradient. I'm just a bit worried because despite having many smaller areas to squeeze into, since I got the snake three days ago all she has done is sat in the biggest cave of them all. It is about three sizes too big for her at least, but she seems totally disinterested in everything else. Is this still healthy behaviour? I know a hidey python is a happy python - she has other options for smaller hides but he seems to like the big one better - is this a sign of stress? She isn't actively exploring or trying to escape.

I made the stupid mistake of picking her up on the second day to check for mites and weigh her because I was paranoid (no mites, phew) and forgot to do this on the first day, so given I've prematurely handled her for the first two days, should I wait another 7 days before offering any food whatsoever?

Stats for viv:
Humidity generally between 55%-68%
Basking temps 31c on the ground and 35c at the highest point of a hide on the hot side. 200w CHE controlled by thermostat. Cold side is between 22c-27c. Temperatures measured with a heat gun and humidity with a digital probe.
Cold side also has a water dish and 'damp hide' with moss.
Substrate is eco earth with coconut fibre and leaves, and there's at least 4 hides in the viv with a habba hut and several plants/log. Light cycle is provided using a shadedweller t5 with a 12 hour cycle.

I've attached a picture of the two 'warm' hides, as well as the whole vivarium and the snake. As you can see there's a huge size difference between the two, but she seems to still prefer the big one. Is this still fine as long as she has the choice? Sorry for being a big newbie I just want to make her feel safe.

Any other advice also appreciated.



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