I use DHP for several of my snakes, including my Ball Python. and I absolutely recommend them. My Jungle Carpet Python comes out and basks under his every single day; the other snakes bask regularly - some daily, some every couple of days. The Ball Python does more cryptic basking (throwing just a coil or two under the lamp) but it is definitely basking and definitely different behavior than I observed with a radiant heat panel (RHP).
Most of my enclosures are set up with RHP but to be honest if I had it to do over again I'd be using DHP for all of my snakes. The photo below is Paco, one of my Tarahumara Mountain Boas. I took it on the first day he had access to a DHP. He took that position and basked like that ALL DAY, and has spent at least some time basking almost every day since then. Look, I'll be completely transparent here and confess that I teared up a little when I saw how much the little guy was enjoying that DHP. I wish I'd provided it for him sooner.
I had several discussions with one of the researchers at Arcadia Reptile who helped to develop the DHP, and while I don't want to overwhelm with technical info, I will say that I am confident that these lamps do in fact provide a different experience for the animals and one that is closer to the experience of basking under natural light. Another benefit to DHP is that it's less demanding on electricity than some other options like CHE, and is also easier on humidity. It's true that you need one of the pricier thermostats, but I use Herpstats anyway. Frankly they end up being not much more than the cheaper ones in the long run because they last so long, but their safety features alone make them more than worth it.
If you do decide to use DHP, the probe placement can be a tad tricky to get used to at first, but it's no big deal. Briefly, the DHP causes heat to be absorbed by nearby surfaces so it's more effective to place the probe nearer the outer edge of the main projection zone of the lamp. I also find that when using DHP it's nice to add a few pieces of flat slate near the DHP (about 15" away to be sure it doesn't get too hot). These absorb the heat and reflect it back; the snakes seem to love it.
[IMG][/IMG]
Reply With Quote