Quote Originally Posted by lafasta View Post
Ok great, from what I researched I thought feeding in a separate enclosure was the correct process so thank you for clarifying that. We will feed her in her tank now that I know.
This is a common misconception on the almighty internet, heh. No worries. Some people still choose a separate enclosure because their snakes are finicky and refuse to eat in the tank, but this is pretty rare. Since you're starting out, I would suggest feeding in the tank. The whole "tank aggression" thing is a myth, and as someone else stated, the snake may begin to associate being removed from the tank with eating and therefore become more bitey!

Quote Originally Posted by lafasta View Post
So if I place a smaller tub in the tank for now, how would I make a hot and cold side in such a small area? It seems like the whole tub would heat up, no?
It does get a little more challenging if you're going to use lamps/bulbs. If you use a heat panel or UTH, the heat is in a more direct area, but DO NOT use one without your thermostat! (As you've already learned, they get way too hot). You don't really need a "cold" side in a BP tank--more just an ambient warmth. As long as your basking is near 90, you should be OK. What you do need to ensure is that you have a thermometer on both sides of the tank to ensure the whole thing doesn't overheat/underheat. The stickies are a great source of knowledge for husbandry.

Quote Originally Posted by lafasta View Post
I will also cover the screen with foil for the humidity.
I like saran wrap around the heat lamps/blubs. The aluminum foil may reflect the heat, especially if using lamps. Saran wrap works great, I tape it around the edges of the lid and it retains moisture wonderfully!

Quote Originally Posted by lafasta View Post
When we first picked her as our new baby she was laying completely still in the breeders hand. She seemed very calm which is why I was so suprised by her 2 attempts to strike. I'm hoping after this week she will start to get comfortable again. I'll be trying my best to help her feel that way until then
You're already well on your way by coming here! The folks here are very helpful and knowledgeable. I learn something every day! Good luck!