I wrapped plastic around most of the lid to maintain heat and humidity and it does pretty well... I will adjust the thermometer to under the towel and newspaper when I get home with a new thermometer so I can get accurate readings. As for the shedding, do I just wait for a problem to occur or are there things I can do to prevent a not so optimum shed? I feel confident in my tank being a good habitat, my concern is really with preventing any issues with the shedding process...