Belly heat requirements for proper digestion ?

[Skiploder]

I've seen it referenced a number of times that a belly heat source for 90 degrees F is needed for Ball Pythons to digest properly. I've also of course seen recommendations to provide both a hot/cool side to allow them to thermo-regulate.

I have provisions in place for that, but am curious why my snake often prefers this cool-side hide after feeding (he's 3-days sitting in his cool hide, which now shows to be at 80 F, since his last meal)... He'll sometimes move to the warm hide, but not all that much. If there's any consistency, it seems to be the location where the last meal was served (he's on f/t rats). Thoughts?

Belly heat is not needed for digestion. Digestion is about body, not belly temperature.