I've got two babies- my first two snakes, and I wanted to ask a few questions that I've been having trouble with. I've got a hatchling ball python and a year old RTB that I adopted.

Heating- My ball python is in a 10 gallon tank. My dilemma is this: I've got an UTH and a 50 watt bulb. With both, it is WAY too hot (102 at the bottom), but with just the UTH it's a little too cool on the cool side (78-80). I've of course taken the light down...but I'm a bit concerned that the UTH isn't enough sometimes. Am I ok or is there something else I should be doing?

Humidity- I'm just north of the DFW area, and this summer we've had excessive heat and no rain... the humidity is TERRIBLE. I spray several times a day, and often lay wet towels over part of the top of the tanks. It may go up to the 50's%...for half an hour tops. I've just noticed a dent in my RTB's eye, so I need some other suggestions. I've seen products sold for aiding in shedding...would this help during this dry time?

Random Question- I've heard that sometimes if you give your BP gerbils, they won't go back to normal food, because they like them so much. I work at a pet store, so we get adoption gerbils brought in all the time (gerbils I can take home for free). Has anyone experienced this?

Thanks guys!