Won't come down?

[Apophis]

I bought my normal female about a month ago and she has just been hiding. However Thursday I put a silk ficus in there and ever since she been on the very top by the screen is this normal? Should I be worried about the snake falling or the plant falling off the glass?

[Skiploder]

I bought my normal female about a month ago and she has just been hiding. However Thursday I put a silk ficus in there and ever since she been on the very top by the screen is this normal? Should I be worried about the snake falling or the plant falling off the glass?

"Normal" is a tricky question - every animal has their own individual quirks.

A lot of ball python behavior (in tank) depends on security and thermoregulation. Could any of these two needs be leading to this behavior?

Maybe the temperature at that location is optimal or maybe that spot is where she feels the most secure.

If it worries you, remove the plant.

[mpkeelee]

Where is the hot spot? Do u have the correct size hide? I would take the plant out cuz all it is going to be is a place for I ur snake to fall from and bacteria to get on

[Apophis]

I use a heat lamp for basking and I have a uth on the cool side in a ten gallon starter tank. The warm side reads 87 or so and the cool side is around 82 to 84

[Skiploder]

I use a heat lamp for basking and I have a uth on the cool side in a ten gallon starter tank. The warm side reads 87 or so and the cool side is around 82 to 84

What is the temp where she's hanging out in the ficus?

What are you using to read temps?

[Apophis]

I just have the reg gauge thermometer and I'll have to invest in a digital probe type. And the temp is around 83 cus my thermometer on the cool side is up high next to the plant.

[Skiploder]

I just have the reg gauge thermometer and I'll have to invest in a digital probe type. And the temp is around 83 cus my thermometer on the cool side is up high next to the plant.

Buy the temp gun. All you are doing is guessing on the spots temps.

83 is in his wheel house - very close to his core temp. Sounds like he's found the perfect combo of temperature and security in the plant.

[Apophis]

Ok thanks and I'll look into the gun

[Apophis]

Ok so i got the temp gun and the spot over the uth was 114 so that's y it's way up there. Apophis is fine and I unplugged the uth. My question is how can I keep the temps right now? I have a heat lamp w 50 w infrared bulb and another 50 w heat bulb for daytime but with my window ac it stays to cold with just the screen lid. Do I cover the top or ? I plan on gettin t-stat but am broke right now. Help please

[rperry03]

Should have spent the $$$ on a $30 thermostat and not a heat gun right now.
This is going to sound brutal but since you are broke turn the ac off and the cage will heat up and you will save on electric! Of course I have no idea of your situation it was only a suggestion.