Having issues regulating proper Temps

TheFrogman · 11-30-13, 08:03 AM

I'm new to "The Python World", I got my first Spotted Python less than a week ago. I love him, he's amazing, I'm sorry I waited so long to get a Python. At the recommendation of the Mom n Pop Pet Store that I got him from, I put him in a 10 Gallon glass aquarium because he is only 7 months old.

The issue that I am having due to the small tank size is regulating proper Temps.

I have the warm side (Daytime) at 85* F, I have his "Hot Spot" (Basking Area) at 95-96*F, I cant seem to keep his cool side where it should be. His cool side is currently at 85*F.

Are these Temps ok or do I need to put him in something larger so that I can regulate him temps better?

I have always been told, don't go too big.

LadyWraith · 11-30-13, 10:39 AM

Bigger is not a problem if you provide enough cover (IE multiple hides, ground cover). I would imagine 10 gallons is just not enough space for a proper temp gradient. That's just my deduction since 10 gallons is a pretty tiny space. If it were me personally, I'd switch to a bigger tub setup (I've found them to be easier to maintain both humidity and temp wise) and add multiple hides throughout.

marvelfreak · 11-30-13, 12:19 PM

What are you using to heat it?

SSSSnakes · 11-30-13, 12:24 PM

You will have problems trying to have a hot side and a cool side in such a small tank like a ten gallon. Get at least a 20 gallon.

SnoopySnake · 11-30-13, 12:49 PM

Basically what LadyWraith and SSSSnakes said..

I would switch to a larger tank/tub with more plants, branches/perches, foliage, etc. As long as the tank isn't too open your snake should be fine in a bigger enclosure.

TheFrogman · 11-30-13, 01:12 PM

You guys are the best, I had a feeling the 10G was just too small, Its like trying to regulate the salt in a 5G Saltwater Fish Tank, way too hard.

I pulled a spare 40B that I has laying around my basement (never been used) and fixed it up for him with hides and little "pockets" about every 8 inches. I'm using a Large Heat Pad w/Thermostat attached for hot side and I also have a infrared heat lamp overhead.

Hopefully this should do the trick, I need all of my lil ones happy.

Sorry about the poor quality Photo.

SSSSnakes · 11-30-13, 01:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TheFrogman

You guys are the best, I had a feeling the 10G was just too small, Its like trying to regulate the salt in a 5G Saltwater Fish Tank, way too hard.

I pulled a spare 40B that I has laying around my basement (never been used) and fixed it up for him with hides and little "pockets" about every 8 inches. I'm using a Large Heat Pad w/Thermostat attached for hot side and I also have a infrared heat lamp overhead.

Hopefully this should do the trick, I need all of my lil ones happy.

Sorry about the poor quality Photo.

Looks like a very nice enclosure.

SnoopySnake · 11-30-13, 01:26 PM

Looks great! However, I would ditch those analog themometer/hygrometers for a digital one with a probe, as they tend to be more accurate and last longer.

TheFrogman · 11-30-13, 01:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SnoopySnake

Looks great! However, I would ditch those analog themometer/hygrometers for a digital one with a probe, as they tend to be more accurate and last longer.

I have two digitals with probes, one on each side, you just cant see them. I just threw the analogs in the middle to give them something to do. : )

Thanks

SnoopySnake · 11-30-13, 01:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TheFrogman

I have two digitals with probes, one on each side, you just cant see them. I just threw the analogs in the middle to give them something to do. : )

Thanks

Ah, well no worries then! Actually upon looking closer I can see a cord for one I think.. Sorry for the misunderstanding

TheFrogman · 11-30-13, 01:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SnoopySnake

Ah, well no worries then! Actually upon looking closer I can see a cord for one I think.. Sorry for the misunderstanding

Never need to be sorry with me, I appreciate all of your feedback and advice, Is a bad picture I know.

Thank you.

Sharlynn93 · 11-30-13, 03:04 PM

you can see the digital numbers reflected on the glass, i believe...looks nice!

TheFrogman · 11-30-13, 04:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sharlynn93

you can see the digital numbers reflected on the glass, i believe...looks nice!

Thank so much, I try so hard with this being my first Python, I try to give them a happy environment
Ive already added to it since the first pic was taken, more stuff to climb on.

sharthun · 11-30-13, 04:29 PM

Looks great!

Chris72 · 11-30-13, 05:13 PM

Good advice so far.

Need some clarification on this:
"I have the warm side (Daytime) at 85* F, I have his "Hot Spot" (Basking Area) at 95-96*F, I cant seem to keep his cool side where it should be. His cool side is currently at 85*F."

>>What is meant by daytime @85? That is 10deg too cool to start with on the hit side. If you are using a night drop then we are going from to cold to even colder.

>>Basking area? (As in overhead?) Ball pythons do not come out to bask in radiant heat like a breaded dragon, etc. If you are supplying the 85deg with an UTH then turn that up to 95 for belly heat on the hot side. A "basking" area is not needed.

>> even though 85 might be a few degrees too hot for the cool side you should focus on getting the right temp on the hot side first, in the right manner.

Also: Consider taking black construction paper and totally covering the back and both sides to limit stress on the animal. Balls like to feel tight, safe and secure.

It's a cozy looking space by the way!

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