First off, Welcome!

Quote Originally Posted by TanyaL View Post
Is a light source necessary? We were told to have a light (heat source) on for 12 hours and off for 12 hours. We have both a white light and a red light, both of which are 60w if I'm not mistaken. Only one is used at a time. If it is necessary, does it matter if we use the red or white bulb?
If you have a UTH you may not need the bulbs. The UTH ideally should reach the optimal temps of 90-94 (for the warm side) then give a temp gradient of 80-84 on the cool side. If you aren't reaching these temps with the UTH alone, then you may need to use a low wattage bulb. The white light or red one is acceptable as long as the white one is turned off at night. To much "daylight" (constant white light) will stress out the little guy. Also if you're not reaching the proper temp gradient, you may need to buy a second UTH (if you want to go the UTH way). I personally have two lights (no UTH) and with some tweaking have gotten the right temps. Whatever heat source you use must be controled by a dimmer/thermostat/rheostat.

UTH - We were told to adhere the UTH to the bottom of the tank and that adhesive strips would be included....but they were not.
Most pet store brands (zoomed, etc.) heat pads have a peal off backing, just like a sticker. I don't suggest pealing it off, instead use aluminium tape to adheare it.

Feeding - She was being fed small mice once every two weeks but the majority of the people we spoke with suggested to feed her fuzzies (?) once a week. Does this sound right for her size?
I think for her size a med. mouse maybe in order once every 7 days would be good. But we'll wait to hear from others on that.


Also, would you suggest feeding her in her enclosure or in a seperate enclosure?
Some suggest it, others don't. I personally don't. With balls being rather shy creatures I want mine to feel secure in his habitat and to hunt that way.

She is pretty darn active compared to the other balls that we've seen. When we had the greenery in her tank, she would totally re-arrange it by morning. Since taking it out, she hangs out on the tree limb and climbs and explores everything!! Is this normal?
It sounds like she's getting to know her new home, that's all.

My son is away visiting his cousins so she has not been handled the past few days and not since this has happened. I'm afraid of how she might react when he gets her out the next time. Any suggestions?
It's suggested to let the settle in a week before handling. I'd take this time to let her get used to her surroundings and then have her handled once your son gets home.

Tank background - do you suggest it?
Up to you entirely.

Best of luck with the new purchase. Feel free to ask away if you have more questions. And once again, welcome.