Reptile & Amphibian Forums

hi all I’m looking into getting a ball python and have a few questions.
1) Aspen, cypress or coconut coir substrate?
2)Ultratherm or fluker’s heat mat? no other choices this is what I have it down to.
3)Zilla 500 watt temp control thermostat a good option? or another similar, more reliable, popular, same price range thermostat out there?
4)sterilite container good? any methods for putting something between heater and plastic to prevent warping/melting? or is the thermostat good enough to regulate?
Thanks

i use both aspen as well as cypress for bedding. if you are going to use a rack set-up with the tubs then i would use heat tape not a heat mat. if you are going to use the tub by its self i wouldn't cause they could get out of it easier. if your using a fish tank then either mat would work for you. as for the temp controller i like ronco or johnson both work great and they run about 70-80 bucks. the zilia one i have heard can break causing it to spike your temp to the point that it would kill your snake. i hope this helps a little
Nate
Normal Exotic's