UTH pad or just a lamp?

[kaiden89]

I'm hopefully going to get my first ball python this weekend and I'm just looking for advice on whether or not I should use a heating pad and or a heating lamp? The person I'm most likely getting my snake from says to just use a lamp as they don't care for heating pads ... advice or opinions on this would be greatly appreciated. I want the absolute best for my new little guy.

[Eazyyyb]

9/10 times people are going to tell you to use a UTH. It is better for humidity and providing a hot spot BUT you have to make sure the ambient temperatures are good (usually depends on the temp in the room) and you NEED to get a thermostat to control the temperature of the UTH, so it doesn't get too hot and harm your snake. Lamps can be okay too, but they burn up humidity really bad and just aren't loved by the snake keeping community

[Adamrhh]

It honestly depends on the snake. I have 2 girls who don't use a hide at all and basks on the heat light and never uses the heat pad. I have to use both since my room temperture is too chilly.

[Mr. Misha]

You can either use both or one or the other. It just depends on your needs. There's not one right way to do things. For example, if the room where you're going to keep your BP consistently stays around 75 or higher, you can get away with just using the UTH (don't forget that a UTH NEEDS to be controlled by a thermostat). If you're going to use a lamp, I suggest you get a CHE bulb since they don't produce light and last longer than the black/red bulbs do. Also, I'd suggest getting a digital thermometer/hygrometer so you always know your ambient temp and humidity.

[Sonny1318]

Either way is fine, it's truly up to you. I personally use red light bulbs. I employ a humid hide strategy. It works out fine for me, and they eat without problem. They have a wonderful sheen, and are in great health. It's what your comfortable with and what works best for your situation. Good luck!

[kaiden89]

Thanks for all the replies everyone I think I'm going to the route of both with a thermostat on the UTH and see how he does