Wow, I was thinking that I'd use aspen for a snake when I get one, but after reading this, I might just use packing paper. I have a whole bunch left after I switched my Bearded Dragon from paper to tile. I don't want to risk anything with a snake if I get one.
Since the heat mat would be controlled by a thermostat, there's no risk to the paper getting too hot and burning or something, right?
I'd have snakey in a tub also, so I don't think humidity will be any issue.