yeah, i agree 100% about the thermometer, i dont trust it at all but it doesnt seem to be sticking so for now i have to go by it. I'll be heading to the hardware store soon to get a digital thermometer. right now my UTH is uncontrolled and i was worried about it being too hot, so for the time being i put extra substrate on that side of the tank. Any ideas why he might be so elusive? i guess maybe hes just getting used to his new home, but the first night he was out and about. thanks for your help!