Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hello,

I recently acquired a 4-year-old male ball python from a friend and noticed that during a current heat and dry spell we're having, he's been yawning and making a odd popping noise from time to time. I've been trying to increase the humidity in his tank - his temperature gradient usually ranges from 85 degrees F on one side and 95 degrees F on the other side and the humidity is usually between 30 and 40%. He has coconut husk substrate that I've been spraying with deionized water a couple of times a day to try to increase humidity. He has a large water dish in the tank. Also, I've been bringing him in the shower with me so he can enjoy the humidity in there. He seems to like it quite a bit. It is also noteworthy that my friend lived on the coast and I live about 10 miles inland, so it's a bit drier out here.

My question is, is he at risk for some kind of respiratory infection from the dryness? What else can I do to increase and maintain the humidity in his tank and relieve his yawning/wheezing?

Thanks a million!

Do you have a screen top enclosure? Humidity often escapes through screen tops, making it harder to consistently maintain. If you do have the screen top, try placing a towel over the screen.

I also use coconut fibers (ecoearth) and I think they are great for maintaining humidity. It holds water really well, so don't be afraid to spray a good amount of water (just make sure that the substrate isn't really wet-just moist).

I have found that placing damp moss inside my ball's hide (on the warmer side) also help hydrate her--especially while she is shedding.

Have you noticed any liquids coming out of her nose or any excess in her mouth? These are indicative of a respiratory infection. If you are worried, I always suggest visiting a vet. I'm not a vet, so take all my advice with a grain of salt.