1. For his size he should be on rat pups or weaned rats(?), but I understand that you got the fuzzies, so might as well use those up! I'm on the same boat lol so mine gets 3 each time until I run out. Best to get him feeding first.
2. You could also try aluminum foil for the screen top and leave just enough for the heat lamps as an alternative.
3. Substrate is good!
4. Definitely get a thermostat. Heat pads can spike up to 120F without being regulated which will cause a burn for your snake in the long run. The stick on gauges probably aren't the most accurate.. the Jumpstart one from amazon is a good starter one if you're on a budget. I'm in college as well, and I understand the expenses. Luckily I have saved more than enough for my little noodle! Aim for around 90 for a hot spot when you do get your heat pad situation figured out. May want to unplug it until you can properly monitor it.
5. Mine also perched on top of the hide when he was settling in. He didn't really start to thermoregulate until the 2nd day. Just him getting used to the environment.
6. Yeah, let him do his thing for a while. You'll have plenty of time to handle when he's all settled inI understand the temptation lol!
I don't really think that transporting the snake is a good idea. That will most likely lead to food refusal because of stress. He most likely hasn't had time to settle yet and moving him so soon will probably make for one hissy pissy snake lol. I'm in college and my snake stays home and monitored by my lovely mother, but I come home weekly to change water, feed, spot clean, etc. They can be fine for a week. With that being said, it also depends how long your trip will be. If possible, maybe the person could come to the snake than the other way around.
Reply With Quote