The only concern with cypress is that it can contain harmful spores. That said, I've known people who use it successfully. Your substrate sounds like either repti bark or cypress mulch.

I've used all sorts of heating methods over the years, and I'm going to tell you what I've concluded: lamps in glass cages are not practical. Buy and set up a UTH with a trusted thermostat (I like Johnsons) before you purchase your snake. It can take hours for temps to stabilize and you may have to adjust the t'stat a few times.

I also vouch for the Acurite.


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