Reptile & Amphibian Forums

OK. So I have my 10 month old ball python in a nice ten gallon tank, shredded aspen bedding, UTH, blacklight heat lamp on the same side as the UTH, two hiding places (one over the UTH and one not), water dish surrounded by damp moss to keep the humidity up.

Temperature reads 87 degrees under the heat lamp, 78 degrees on the other end. Humidity generally between 60-70%.

He came from a reputable breeder and has a solid feeding history. He has eaten once since we got him two weeks ago, and is due for another feeding tonight (last one was ten days ago, no problem).

Lately, he has taken to burrowing and hiding under his water dish on the cool side of the tank, spilling water all over the area under the water dish in the process.

So now he spends most of his time in the cold dampness under his water dish. When I pick him up, he is wet (from the water/dempness) and cold to the touch.

Is this OK? I am worried about scale rot, although no signs of it yet.

Any thoughts as to whether my concerns are misplaced (I mean, he ought to know what makes him feel comfortable, no?)

My biggest concern is this all takes place in a 10 gallon aquarium. Balls arn't that big, esp. at 10 months, but it is difficult to have a usable temperature gradient in such a small area. The python is simply using the most comfortable hidespot, (which may suggest that your current ones need altering to make them more appealing). Nothing to worry about as long as there is a dry area in the enclosure, and the proper temps are observed.