And this is the perfect place to get all the right info

I agree about the exploring thing. I only see my ball python openly cruising around if I put something new in, clean his cage, or pre-scent the room. The most moving he does on a daily basis that I can see is moving from one hide to the other, and somehow I hardly see him doing that. They really are a very shy type of snake, but friendly

You can use a lamp dimmer from Lowe's or home depot. I got mine for about 10 bucks. This is used to control the temps of the heat pad. You can also get the thermometer, the accurite one from lowe's for about 10 bucks. Thats where I went, and Alaska is probably a little more pricey.