Everyone can chime in!

[Emily&Jerry]

Ok, so I buy a UTH (it's so weird typing abbreviations - "legalease" is never abbreviated - but I like abbreviations - much shorter) - which I plan on.

What materials may be placed above said UTH and how do I properly regulate the heat emitted from same?

I'm glad you like her name She is black with brownish markings (probably just a normal little python) but I don't care - she's Banana.

[Xotik]

You can buy thermostats that you can use to regulate the temps.
DO NOT buy a human heating pad. They are difficult to control, and are meant for humans.
You can put any of the substrates anybody else has mentioned on it. They usually come with adhesive, so they stick to the tank itself - unless you get Flexwatt - it's basically "build-your-own-heating-pad". So the heat goes straight to the glass. My snakes move their substrate out of the way as they please.

Abbreviations are convenient, once you know what they all mean!

[Emily&Jerry]

Of course - her heating pad would be for reptile use only. This is a very good idea. It will be purchased.

Oh, super-thanks on the whole, "Flexwatt" is "build your own".

No. I do not build. I don't even like Legos.

Thanks to all for your valuable input. A UTH is still rather foreign, but I'll find a perfect one for Banana.

[Xotik]

You are very welcome!
Flexwatt is great if you need a heat source for a ton of enclosures, but unless you want to do it - probably not worth it for one tank.

I'm not sure what you have for petstores in Asheville, but you can probably find a Petsmart or Petco. I know they have reptile UTH's, they can be kinda expensive (35$ or more) but Banana will love every penny. I promise.

I've actually been known to build climbing structures for my babies out of legos! They're cute.

[KatStoverReptiles]

Of course - her heating pad would be for reptile use only. This is a very good idea. It will be purchased.

Oh, super-thanks on the whole, "Flexwatt" is "build your own".

No. I do not build. I don't even like Legos.

Thanks to all for your valuable input. A UTH is still rather foreign, but I'll find a perfect one for Banana.

Be sure to get a thermostat or at least a dimmer switch with your UTH. They can reach very high temperatures and burn your snake if left u regulated.

Welcome!

[Emily&Jerry]

I'm looking at PetMountain.com at the moment. I've had good luck with them (and less monies out of pocket) in the past.

Does the UTH need to cover the ENTIRE bottom of the floor? I'm doubting it, just in case Banana might like a cool spot.

Also, ZooMed or Exo-Terra?

[Skittles1101]

Looks like everyone is on spot! I just wanted to add that it's a breath of fresh air to have actual newbies with a decent set up and idea of how to care before they come here. I, sadly, was not one of those people-much like others, so it's nice to see it from time to time. I love the name Banana and am looking forward to pictures ASAP! Welcome to the forum.

[Xotik]

I'm looking at PetMountain.com at the moment. I've had good luck with them (and less monies out of pocket) in the past.

Does the UTH need to cover the ENTIRE bottom of the floor? I'm doubting it, just in case Banana might like a cool spot.

Also, ZooMed or Exo-Terra?

I prefer Exo-Terra, but both are good companies.

It does NOT need to cover the entire floor. She will need a cool side. You said she's in a 20gallon tank correct? I would suggest this product -
http://www.petmountain.com/product/n...m=11442-107628
in a size Small. This one is available, but if you would like to go with ZooMed

http://www.petmountain.com/product/r...m=11442-105646

There is this one. The size you would need is out of stock, so you'd have to wait for a bit.

I've never used this particular model before - but here is a Rheostat-
http://www.petmountain.com/product/s...m=11442-512443

and PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, do not use in tank heatrocks. I don't want to assume you don't know this - but I don't want to assume you do. They are very difficult to control and can burn your snake very badly.

[Emily&Jerry]

Fabulous - I hoped they didn't need to cover the entire floor. I measured - twice.

I have a very good knowledge of reptiles. In the not so distant past, our beloved Bearded Dragon passed on. She was like taking care of a toddler who was on crack. Banana... not so much. A bit more... relaxed.

Banana, for only having her for a very small time, is extremely friendly. I may take her out in the morning for a hug, and she will unball entirely, and crawl up my face and sit on my forehead for a while. She seems to have no fear of us. The beloved Dragon was a cuddle freak, so we are somewhat still in that mentality.

Banana doesn't mind, and always welcomes a hug or a touch. I have read say something if I'm wrong they stay balled up if they are frightened or unsure. As soon as I pick the little girl up, she stretches and climbs, and inspects/tongues my glasses - or hair. She's strange, in an adorable way. We try to only love on her at night, but sometimes we can't resist in the late morning. She never minds. She's terribly curious. The house is always warm should she be cold.

Edit: Fear not, I would NEVER use a heat rock for her

[Skittles1101]

They get the name because usually their first form of defense is curling into a ball. Hence the name ball python lol. So for her to be curious when she is out is a slight sign that she is comfortable, yes. I only say usually, because as some people have the pleasure of knowing, like myself, others will tag you every change they get