Reptile & Amphibian Forums

im going to get an adult spotted, i think its 3 or 4 years old. i was reading some care sheets and some conflicted, one said they like low humidity, and one said high humidity and that misting was needed, can anyone with experience clarify which would be best? also, i might put it in a large sterlite tub, would that work? they are like large plastic storage bins, only problem may be that i would need a screen top for lighting. are these pythons very temperature specific, or will any temp in the mid 80s be good during the day with mid to upper 70s at night do?

thanks a bunch

This is the best caresheet I've found yet:

http://www.aussiepythons.net/modules.php?name=Encyclopedia&op=content&tid=17

Here's some other reading material:

http://www.reptilerooms.com/Sections index-req-viewarticle-artid-96-page-1.html

http://www.smuggled.com/chicom1.htm

http://cc.usu.edu/~jgjulander/ChildrensCare.html

http://archives.zinester.com/89677/65041.html

http://www.burkesbackyard.com.au/2001/archives/2001_archives/roadtests/reptiles/childrens_python?mysource_site_extension=printer_friendly_pages

http://www.vhs.com.au/pages/Childrencare.html

Here is my experience:

Use a plastic tub and drill enough holes to keep humidity at 50-60%. Take time to adjust the setup well before getting the snake. Use an under-tank heat pad (UTH) and keep it set in the high 80's on a thermostat. The cool side should be mid 70's. (honestly my snake never really hides on the cool side. I'm thinking of jacking the temps up a bit). For my 3.5 foot adult, I feed one 50 gram rat, or a couple mice every other week. He has been gaining about 20 grams per month this way.

Don't worry about a screen top lid. You don't need anymore light than the ambient light in your house (if you use a clear plastic cage). They don't need UV or anything.

Maybe provide a humid hide around shedding time. Mine starts to get dark and muddy looking before shedding.

Antaresia like to cram into tight places. Mine loves to hide under those flat, clay, flowerpot saucers.

Post some pics when you get one!