(New Owner) I have a few questions.

[Sinessu]

So, I'm going to be getting a BP soon. I just had a couple questions on things I was unsure of. I want to make everything perfect for my BP when it arrives. I'm currently using a Glass Tank for my BP, but it will be upgraded in the near future. I think I pretty much have everything down in terms of his tank, hides, substrate, the decor, etc. I'm going to be picking up a temp gun later as well. Is there anything that I'm missing for him? Would love to hear some tips/advice!

The main questions I have are -

Can you use duct tape to cover the screen lid or would aluminum foil/tape work better?

Whats the best Thermometer, Hygrometer, and T-Stat?

Thermometer - For the thermometer, I've heard of a couple different ones so I'm unsure as to which would be better. I heard that Acurite is one most people are using now for their thermometer, but which version of Acurite is best?

T-Stat - I'm currently using Jumpstart for my T-stat, but I feel uneasy about it so I'm trying to find other options. I've heard of Herpstat but thats a little pricey for me at the moment. Any other good brands?

As for the Hygrometer, I have a little digital one from Petsmart, but once again im unsure of it being correct and I haven't really heard of any other options. (Aside from Acurite).




If there's anything that I missed that would be needed in his enclosure, please let me know!

[Mr. Misha]

Personally, I wouldn't use duct tape. Go to your building supply store and have them cut out a piece of acrylic that you can just lay on top or use aluminum foil. You want to make sure that your BP doesn't accidentally get stuck to whatever you're putting on top.

In regards to the T-stat, good ones will be pricey. If I were you, I'd look for a used one. I found both of mine Herpstat 4s for half the price online. Similar brands to Herpstat are about the same price. For the Thermometer/Hygrometer combo, you can pick one up at Walmart for like $10 bucks and just place it inside the enclosure.

[KevinK]

When I had a screen top lid a long time ago I used a piece of plexiglass cut to the opening size....I would avoid tape. If you dont want to use plexiglass, a thin piece of plywood would hold you off as long as it's not close to a heat lamp.

I use an accurite thermometer/hygrometer combo....digital from walmart, use it in conjunction with a temp gun.

Thermostats? Herpstat, Vivarium Electronics, Johnson, Ranco.....all are between $60-$100.....and are all quality units. The "Jumpstart" unit you have actually isnt a terrible unit at all. Not the best, but sufficient for the time being. They sell them under different names and use them for heat mats for gardening seedlings. I used one for about two years straight without issues a long time ago.Aim for a Herpstat or Vivarium Electronics unit eventually though.

Hygrometers all seem to suck actually Ive come to find out over the years. Some keepers go out and spend big bucks on expensive units, I dont see the need for it. Buy the accurite or even two of them. They will get you close. Otherwise, pay attention to your snake's shedding habits and adjust humidity accordingly.

Edit: Guy above me is a genius....almost every thought exactly the same. Well played sir. Well played.

[Nz2500]

JumpStart is what i use, and it works great! It has a better probe than alot of Herp Branded Meters.
And with covering your screen, you need to be VERY CAREFULL, because duct tape can harm your snake!

EDIT: I must add that i am proud of you for doing ALL the research BEFORE you got your noodle. It shows that you care for your animal, and that already makes you a FAR better owner than alot of people out there!

[Craiga 01453]

Welcome to the forum!

First off, nice job getting everything set up before bringing your snake home!!

It sounds like you're well on your way to bring a great snake keeper.

I use Accurite brand thermometer/hygrometers in all my enclosures. 2 in each enclosure (except for my little 10 gallon hognose house).
I also use Jumpstart tstats. I do plan to upgrade to HerpStat eventually, but I'm happy with the jumpstarts so not in any hurry.

As for the duct tape. I wouldn't. Tape and snakes don't mix. You NEVER want to put tape inside the enclosure. And I know you're talking outside, but I still wouldn't.
I'm not sure where you live, but here in MA it gets cold and dry in the winter, so I wrap my glass enclosures in 1/2" foam board insulation. It helps immensely with heat and humidity control as well as helps with my electric bill.

My advice: read, read, read, then read some more. The more you learn about your new pet the better a home you can provide.
Ask all the questions you need to, we're happy to help!

Good luck and again, nice work getting things set up ahead of time!!! You're already a step ahead of so many people!

[Sinessu]

Thanks for the kind words and advice guys!

As for the lid, I took the duct tape off and changed it to aluminum foil for now. I also put up some foam board around his enclosure.

For Acurite - Yesterday, I went to a couple stores and nobody had it in stock, so I’m gonna have to order it online. Can anyone link the right Acurite to get? cause I know there are a few versions.

[Mr. Misha]

For Acurite - Yesterday, I went to a couple stores and nobody had it in stock, so I’m gonna have to order it online. Can anyone link the right Acurite to get? cause I know there are a few versions.

Here's the one I have but there's not really a "right" one. Just make sure it reads tems and humidity:

https://www.acurite.com/digital-humi...tor-00309.html

Also, you can try this one from VE. It's good but make sure you order the small batteries for it:

http://www.reptilebasics.com/thermometers/TH-100/