I've owned a bp for about 2 months now, so I'm still a little new. I recommend a second, identical hide to be put on the opposite end of the tank. There needs to be a heat gradient that for most people is provided by under tank heaters and flexwatt heat tape. The basking side (1/3-1/2 of the cage) should be within 2-3 degrees of 90 fahrenheit and the cooler side between 75 and 80 preferably.

The humidity in the cage needs to be 50-60%, then between 65 and 70% when your bp goes into shed (blue eyes, faded skin).

The hide is good, but it NEEDS to be one where it surrounds your snake on ALL sides. It should fit snugly around the snake. Your roommate's wooden log hide will work if you have one end next to the glass with bedding covering up the area between that end and the glass. Also, you can fill up the log with more bedding so the bp can just squish himself into it.

I find my bp crawling on his log and on his plant that's attached to the cage via suction cups.

I researched the jungle mix substrate, and it looks good. It will retain moisture for the cage's humidity and works for burrowing (like my snake).

Make sure your cage lid locks and can't be pushed up, because bps are VERY strong and muscular, and can escape if it isn't secured tightly and properly every time.

Good luck on your little bps! Hope to see pics soon.

Sam Jane