Snake Newbie in New Mexico

[looneybin4sure]

Hi there,

I recently inherited a ball python (Alice - between 1 & 2 years old) from my daughter when she moved out. I have fallen in love with Alice and have been searching the web trying to learn all I can to make sure she is well taken care of.

When my dd decided she wanted a snake, she convinced us she had done her research and was ready to take on a ball python. While my dd did take good care of her, I now know that her housing situation has really not been ideal.

We live in dry New Mexico where the winters are especially dry and it so very difficult to maintain the heat and humidity. I don't want her to get sick. She's in a 10 gal. glass tank with the screen lid and I've been reading how this setup is the hardest to maintain regardless of misting the tank several times a day, keeping a wet cloth over the mesh, putting the water dish closer to the heat lamp, etc.

We have a uth and overhead infrared heat bulb connected to a rheostat but that's not doing it. I recently purchased a P3 P0250 Digital Mini Hygro-Thermometer which I've already placed in the center of the tank and a Hydrofarm MTPRTC Digital Thermostat For Heat Mats, which I haven't yet setup. I've decided to move her into a sterilite clear plastic tub but not sure how to set up the heat. I don't want to burn or warp it. I assume a heat lamp is now out of the question also.

I have stumbled upon a couple of threads addressing plastic tub setup but haven't had access to some other details, mainly posted setup pics. Humidity is my main concern here. She's had a hard time shedding over the last couple of weeks. I purchased a Zoo Med Reptile Shelter 3 in 1 Cave to try to help that but that would dry out quickly too. I really need some help on this.

BTW, all she has in her tank currently are 2 hides (on opposite sides), a water dish in the center, the digital hygro-thermometer in the center, and a regular thermometer on the "hot side'. I would like to decorate it a little eventually. She has a rat every other week.

If you can direct me to some relevant threads (tub housing) that would be awesome. Thank you all so much. I have much to learn and implement to keep Alice safe & healthy.

Liz (aka Looney Mom)