Quote Originally Posted by jglass38
Thoughts?
Jamie, my thoughts probably aren't going to be what you want to hear. I think that investing in the right gear to undertake a project like breeding is paramount because breeding involves something as sensitive to the health of ball pythons as temperature manipulation.

A quality thermostat with a nite time drop feature from helix runs about $130 brand new (plus another $15 I think for the nite time drop cord) (I frequently find them used for around $70 and they are just as good). It's really not that much to pay when talking about the health of your animals and the potential return from your breeding endeavors. (The cost is likely less than you paid for that breeding pair in october)

Matt (aka "justcage") could probably even jump in here with a lower cost option that also has nite time drop that will do just as well for you.

I certainly don't claim that the things I suggest and the way I do things are the only way ... There are tons of ways to be successful with all aspects of keeping and breeding these animals. I'm just trying to share some of my experiences and give back to the community that has given so much to me over the years.

Many many moons ago when I first started breeding I had snakes get URI from not dropping temps properly. I've been down that road and it sucks! Almost made me give up the idea of breeding all together.

I am sure that whatever you work out will be the best for you and your animals!

-adam