where do i check the temp.

Hi guys -

I was using moss a substrate for the first month I've had my corn. I didn't really like it as it was difficult to see where the snake did its business, and it was impossible to see if it was still there, which lead to me checking if it was still in the viv and disturbing it.

Anyway - today I went out and got some astro-turf. I figure this looks good, doesnt smell, doesn't have lots of dust and at least I'll be able to do a better job of keeping things clean. (and the snake still has plenty place to hide)

The problem is that now im not 100 percent sure of where to measure the temp on the warm side. Should it be on top of or under the astro turf. At the moment its 86 degrees under the astro-turf. Do you guys think I should try get the correct heat on top of it? Sorry if this seems silly - I'm just not sure and its better to ask than to have the snake uncomfortable.

I'd measure under the astroturf. Nearly every snake I've kept on reptile carpet has quickly discovered how to burrow under it.

You need to know the temp under the astroturf 'cause your snake WILL get under it, and you can't fasten it down (for cleaning purposes). I tried turf in my first viv, didn't work for me. You want to know if you have a temp high enough to hurt your snake. Maybe another thermometer to measure the rest of the viv is a good idea.

thanks guys

I was just unsure about whether i should push the temperature up so that it would higher on top of the turf, but doing that would make it way to hot underneath, thats what I was worried about.

I'll just leave it as is - thanks for the quick replys.

I tried turf in my first viv, didn't work for me.

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What do use now Alan? What problems did you encounter with it?

Maybe another thermometer to measure the rest of the viv is a good idea.

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I have one of those indoor outdoor thermometers. Was just not sure whether to place the probe on top or under the turf.

Once again - thanks for the quick replys

It's just hard to clean. When I used it, I had two sets and would wash one in the washing machine and then dry in the sun, and put in the alternate. I use aspen now and would never go back. Actually, I do have one snake that's on carpet because she's in a hospital tank. It's kind of a pain to find them under the carpet, too, unless they have a favorite burrow. When Choco had it, she had permanent tunnels all over the place under the carpet. I'm sure she was very sad to see it go.