first week as a new owner, can use some input

[beandog]

Beandog, what are your average room temps? Unless its in the 60s, you shouldn't have any issues maintaining 80 degree ambient tank temps.

It varies, because I never keep my apartment temperature the same either ... sometimes I like the AC on, sometimes I like the windows all open, so it can be between about 72 to 85 degrees.

If you so have issues, you can cover the majority of the tank with a towel, foil, anything to hold in heat. If its still too cool. You can get rid of the tank liner and put a shallow layer of bedding down, that should help immensely.

Okay, that's really good to know. I wanted to put *something* on top anyway just so he isn't exposed to the large open area, and instead he can feel even more contained. I don't feel comfortable putting something on there now, because of the heat lamp. But obviously if that's gone, I have a lot more options.

Alternatively, you could always keep the overhead lamp, but that will most likely result in humidity issues. This, too, can easily be fixed by switching to a better substrate that holds humidity (coco fiber/Eco earth, mulch) or providing humid hides filled with moss during shed(which is what I like to do).

Okay, cool, I like both of those ideas for maintaining humidity. Thanks!