NEWBIE ball python owner & need advice!

[Soldierzgurl79]

Glad I found that out before ordering. I had looked into rack systems but all were very expensive and I was worried about the heating.

If you know of any that I can get cheap then please let me know. I plan on getting several other snakes in the months to come.

[GDZILLA95]

I personally like cyprus mulch or reptibark for substrate. They both hold humidity well and I have never had an issue with mold using them. I have read that aspen bedding is more likely to mold then cyprus or reptibark.

[norwegn113]

Those probe type Acu rite thermometers are hard to find now. Everyone is now carrying the wireless units, which would be great but they are big and bulky and very easy for your snake to wrap around. I tried 3 different walmarts today . Thinking amazon maybe??

[Inarikins]

Really? Helped a friend set up for a BP and they had like 3 or 4 still. If they're not making them anymore, I guess I'm going to have to buy the rest while I still cab.

[The Serpent Merchant]

Really? Helped a friend set up for a BP and they had like 3 or 4 still. If they're not making them anymore, I guess I'm going to have to buy the rest while I still cab.

It really seems to depend on location. The Walmarts where is grew up (clearwater, Fl) don't have them at all, but here in Orlando they do

[Soldierzgurl79]

I live in south eastern Ohio & have found the acurite models mentioned in Wva & Oh so I guess it's the location. There were plenty @ both stores I went 2.

I have ordered a thermostat & have several acurites but am still debating on the heat mats/tape. I have sterilite tubs so not sure what's best. I was thinking about getting the intellitemp heat mats...


ANYONE HAVE EXPERIENCE W/ THESE?????

[NormanSnake]

Since you already ordered a thermostat, I'd go with heat tape. It's the cheapest way to go and it's safely used by many ball python keepers. It's 2.10/ft http://www.reptilebasics.com/heat-tape/4-heat-tape/ You can't beat that. Now that I'm getting more snakes, I'm about to order myself some.

[Soldierzgurl79]

That does seem like a really good price. 1 of the reasons I was considering the intellitemp heat mats was because they could be removed and used on other tubs/tanks easily.

What would I used to attach if I used the heat mats?

[mlitz]

People use duck tape, electrical tape, and aluminum tape. all will work just kind of personal preference and what works for you.

[jschwe]

I don't have experience with those heat mats so I can't speak directly about those.

IMO heat tape (which ideally you attach to the surface below the tank/tub and not directly do it) is more reliable, and MUCH more convenient. When I used heat mats I found cleaning to be a pain in the neck. The heat pad cord gets dragged around and the pad inevitably starts coming off and you are constantly re-taping.

Ultimately I guess my point is whatever you decide to use, try and secure it to the shelf and not the tub/tank.