Help! - ?'s about setting up a cage for a ball python

[kimmycorn]

Is fir bark good substrate for a ball python and should his hide box be on the warmer side of the tank , by the under tank heating pad? I am setting the tank up right now for him , thanks

[Schwartz]

I Wouldnt Use The UTH, Just Use An OverHead Heatlamp Above the Hidebox. Also, Bark Holds To Much Moisture, Which Can Lead To Problems Like Mites, And Scale Rot, Use Something Like Out Door Carpet.

Dane

	Under Tank Heater Under Tank Heater

	Mites Mites, close relatives of fleas and ticks

[kimmycorn]

thanks , can I throw one more question in here, how about a log for him to climb . Is manzanita wood safe , it is a fruit wood used for bbq so it isnt bad for cooking but will it hurt our new baby snake?

[CC]

I would use the UTH. I don't see why you wouldn't. The bark is fine to. It won't hold to much moisture unless you soak it when you mist it.

	Under Tank Heater Under Tank Heater

[Schwartz]

Bark Holds Bacteria But To Each Their Own, Your Climbing Stick Should Be Fine

[CC]

I don't know if that kind of wood is fine, but just so you know BP do not climb very often. Also it is a good idea to have a hide on the warm and cool sides of the tank.

	Ball Python The Ball Python (Python regius), also known as the Royal Python, is a ground dwelling snake native to the savannahs and rain forests in western Africa, predominatly the countries of Ghana, Togo, and Benin.

[haroldo359]

either heat source will work (i prefer uth) but just make sure your temps and humidity are right.

	Under Tank Heater Under Tank Heater

[CC]

Yes, both will work and I use put both them in my enclosures. Like haroldo said, the important thing is that the temps and humidity are what they are suppost to be.

[kimmycorn]

cool thanks but what do I buy to check humidity ? I have read so much latley I am getting a bit confused but in one article it said the water bowl will provide the needed humidity. Can you all let me know how I check it , thanks so much for all your help . Kimi

[CC]

You can buy a digital thermometer/hydrometer at WalMart for about $10.

[Shuba]

You need a UTH for belly heat. Its an important factor to proper digestion. I really reccomend both a UTH and a ceramic lightning. Its the best way to go, any good herp keeper will tell you bellyheat is important.

	Under Tank Heater Under Tank Heater

[Shadrach]

Kim the bark will be fine as long as it's not pine or cedar these both give off bad things for you snake. Next on to the Under Tank Heat source yes you need this as well as a heat source provided over head, belly heat is important for digestion to take place. Usally both are placed on the same side of the enclosure along with a hide creating a warm spot for your snake to bask. And a cool side for them to retreat to incase they get too warm. Hides can be placed on both sides but not always needed on the cool side. Humidity can be acquired by placing a water bowl inside the tank big enough for the snake to soak in. Walmart has thermometers with humidity readings for around $14 bucks.

[Shuba]

Shadrach..correct me if I am wrong but is that a jungle carpet python in your avatar?

[Ed_r]