I have some great information for you. I have a Ball Python that continuously tried to escape from his cage every night. He ended up bruising the scales under his chin. I took him to Michael Kiedrowski (a herp vet) and he told me that the snake was trying to get out to search for a better environment. He had me get 2 plastic butter containers and potting soil. I cut a hole in each container and put about an inch of soil in each one. Then I moistened the soil and put one on the cold side and one over the heated side. I change the soil every week. The snake loves these. He goes back and forth between the two and has never tried to escape again. You can use any kind of plastic container as long as it has a lid. I also found some great containers at Lowes and Home Depot in the paint department. Lowes are better because they are plain white and look better in the tank. Trust me, if you want your snake comfortable, do this.