His previous owner had him for about 3 years with the temp. reaching about 114 easy, and while this was horrible, I didn't want to lower his temp. too much from what he was used to. Also, I've read several books on Balls (http://www.amazon.com/Ball-Python-He...ref=pd_sim_b_3) which suggest a basking spot of about 95, as well as several care sheets (http://www.reptilechannel.com/care-s...ll-python.aspx for example), which all suggest 86-95 for temp.Thanks for your concern!