The reason I ask is because I was looking at redtailboa.net, specifically their ball python caresheet and this is what it said:

"You should provide a heat gradient by means of a incandescent light and/or heating pad on one side of the cage. If you use both, make sure they're on the same side of the cage."

So, i'm a little confused at the moment. Also, when we're talking about temperature, is that air temperature? or ground temp?

Also, what bulb wattage do you use?