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I'm planning on constructing a tank this summer for a Ball Python. You can see the temporary drawings by clicking on the link below. But there's a little question that's throbbing... How can I know if the temperature inside will be right? I plan on putting 2 60W bulbs (that's why there are two holes), and placing a heat mat, but will that be sufficient? Is there any way in calculating this? (don't feel like breaking it down again once it's finished...) Thanks a lot. Gilles
Cage drawings

The tanks measurements will be 100cm/40" L x 50cm/20" W x 50cm/20" H, which is about 60 gal. Gilles

It's hard to tell beforehand what temps will result from a set up. Experience is the key but you seem to be missing something. A heat control device. When you are creating a habitat for your critter you need to be able to control the temperatue fairly accurately. The best way would be with a proportional thermostat and the cheapest way would be with some sort of rheostat (dimmer).

Since you are planning your enclosure ahead of time. Plan to put in a heat control device and a timer for the lights. You could build these things right into the enclosure...or how ever you think would be cool.

Good luck and post pictures when you're done.

>>The tanks measurements will be 100cm/40" L x 50cm/20" W x 50cm/20" H, which is about 60 gal. Gilles
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Oilfan94 - Big Mike

>>I'm planning on constructing a tank this summer for a Ball Python. You can see the temporary drawings by clicking on the link below. But there's a little question that's throbbing... How can I know if the temperature inside will be right? I plan on putting 2 60W bulbs (that's why there are two holes), and placing a heat mat, but will that be sufficient? Is there any way in calculating this? (don't feel like breaking it down again once it's finished...) Thanks a lot. Gilles
>>Cage drawings

The best way to make sure the temp will be right is to put the lights on a thermostat. I would only use one bulb for night time and use a strip light for day night cycle. using one bulb will also allow for the cage to have a warm spot. I would uuse a zoo med or an Alife thermostat. Also use a thermometer to get the temps set just right.
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Thomas Jones
aligatorhunter@earthlink.net

While you are thinking about robbing the bank, the person beside you is thinking about how to collect the reward!!

If I put the lights on a thermostat, and they switch off and on automatically, won't that disturb and maybe stress the snake too much? I'm talking about a Ball Python, and as I've read till now they're very sensible to stress. Btw, what kind of lamps do you suggest for night time (those photograph-developpers lamps, if you see what I mean by that - don't know the exact name). Thanks a lot for the advice anyway!

Gillou