Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I'm getting back into snakes for the first time since the mid 80s and I've found the hobby has changed a great deal since then. I'm getting a Sinaloan for my son from the dealer that I get my Central American cichlids from but he is better at fish then herps so I'd like to get your feed back on heat sources.

My question is I've found conflicting info on what heat source to use for milk snakes.Some say Milks dont bask so direct heat(ie:under tank heat)is OK while others say radiant heat(bulbs)is the way to go.

My Sinaloan will be going in a 33 gal tank under one of my 55 gal cichlid tanks,so I'd love to stay away from a radiant heat source if I can,but will obviously do what is best for the snake.

So what do you suggest?

Thnx for any replies,
Slyv

If you can maintain a spot in the tank at about 85 degrees, you won't need the light. I have a Sinaloan and she has both the light and undercage warmer, but she comes out most when the light is off. I have her in a bright room so I don't always run the lamp.

Also, Robert Applegate recommends the undertank and not the light. He's an old timer and I'll take his word. I keep my light because I like to look at the snake, but she likes to hide.

So, I think the variation in temp is more important. Give it a cool place and a warm place and don't go over 87-88 degrees.

David (Tigersally)
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