Lesson learned for others in the same situation....before you bring the snake into your collection, make sure you have the environment set up properly. Okay, lecture over. I agree with the other comments here.

The most importnt thing with these two species is AMBIENT temps. We provide thermal gradients using Pro Product radiant heat panels attached to thermostats so that if the snakes want to warm up in the mid to upper 80's they have that opportunity but only in a SMALL portion of t heir cage (and despite being "cool" hots, they will seek out warmer thermalclines while digesting prey for short spurts). But, at the same time, they can cool down to the lower 70's if they wish (and they also seek these out during the week). Night temps are set to drop naturally using a good thermostat. It doesn't matter what temps you set your heat tape as long as the ambient temps are suitable (w/out causing searing hot substrate which could lead to thermal burns). The heat tape temps will really depend on things like where its located, type of substrate, wattage, etc. There are many variables but the most important thing is to have the proper temps set up before you put an animal into its habitat.

Rob Carmichael, Curator
The Wildlife Discovery Center
www.wildlifediscoverycenter.org

>>The best way is to use a temp gun and point it where the snake sits.
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Rob Carmichael, Curator
The Wildlife Discovery Center at Elawa Farm
Lake Forest, IL

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