setting up a tank

[Hill1234]

I plan on getting a ball but I wanted to get the terrarium situated first. I have a 10-gallon tank (I was told 10 gallon tank will work until the snake reaches about 28”, is that ok?). I have a small heat lamp, a under tank small heat pad, a hiding place (half log) and a water bowl. I was wondering how should everything be positioned in the tank in order to make everything as comfortable as possible for the snake. Should the heat pad only be used when the heat lamp is not running? I have a digital thermometer and humidity gauge that has two sensors, each one about an inch from the substrate on both ends of the tank. I have read several read suggested temperature variations from like 70 to 95 F but everything I am reading seems to vary so what would you all recommend?

[arkuden]

a good day time temp to have is right in the 87-91 region, any warmer than that for my BP and he will move to the cold end of the tank. I started mine on a 20gal long tank but a ten is fine untill its outgrown. See if you can get a dimmer for your UTH, and i would say the heat lamp wont even be needed unless the cold end of the tank is colder than 70 degrees. at night i let the hot spot where my little guy usually hides get to low 80s and mid seventies. a log serves as a good hide but may not hold some of that needed heat in. i would say to get maybe a small cave that has only one opening. The snake may feel a bit more secure. Other than that be aware that the lamp will eat up your humidity so i wouldnt run it unless needed. Usually a UTH will get the job done nicely with a dimmer or thermostat. Congrats on getting a ball when you do. You will have to post some pics for us :D

[Jeff_Favelle]

Oddly enough, this very forum that you posted in has a BALL PYTHON CARE SHEET right at the top. Hmmmm....

http://www.ssnakess.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=49236