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Heating Question

Artemis

Artemis

Herpetologist
I'm sure that there is a good answer to this question out there somewhere, but there is just so much out there to search through...

Anyways, I purchased my first corn snake yesterday, and I just wanted to make sure that I am doing the right thing. Right now, the only heat source that I have is an Exo Terra Porcelain Lamp that I have sitting on top of the screen lid. I have a 50W basking, UVA lightbulb in the lamp. The thermometer, which is on the hot side near the substrate (Lizard Litter), is averaging between 80-85 degrees. Is just the lamp enough?

And a bonus question: :) When my snake comes out of his hide (which is rare), he enjoys playing with his reflection in his glass. Does this happen to anyone else? And is it healthy?
 
I am certainly no "pro" when it comes to corns but I can offer what works for me .....

My day temps in the warm end sit at 86F down to 78F at the cool end. To get this I needed a 50Watt spot lamp above a 20L critter cage. I am fortunate enough to have a night time low of 74F ambient in the room so my under tank heaters set at 72F (via thermoastat control) never come on, but I like the added security.

This, as I said, works for me, your heating will depend on your individual situation. I may get torn appart for those stats (I dunno) but I hope it gives you an idea.
 
Hmm... it sounds like just the light works for you, graffixcs, but I'd still like to hear what others think.

To add to my original question, I thought it would be important to know that I have a 10L critter cage. Also, I tried using a UTH, and I ended up returning it because it didn't seem like it was heating well enough. It only brought the temp up to about 72-74 degrees.
 
What exactly is a "10L Critter Cage", A?...one of those plastic w/ a plastic lidded "tank"?...Just can't picture one...Anyway as long as your nite time temps in the room don't get too chilly and you have a cool side where your corn can chill hehe you are good to go....A lot of people have differing opinions as to the way to best heat an enclosure i.e bottom heat vs. back heat vs heat from above...they all work when done right...just make sure you measure your temps right at the substrate level, plus check temps in different places in the cage, to make sure your have a temp. gradient...A water dish helps to cool the cool side, btw, and if placed on top of the substrate underneath becomes a favorite hiding place for some...

As far as your snake following it's reflection...well...what else do they have to do in there? ;*)
 
Thanks for your response, cka! It helped alleviate my fears. I just think it would be pretty embarrassing to bake or freeze my first corn.

And in response to your question, a "10L critter cage" is just your plain old 10 gallon glass aquarium with a screen lid that slides off. I think I confused you because the brand name is "Critter Cage." :)

Thanks for the help, everyone! :D
 
Artemis said:
Hmm... it sounds like just the light works for you, graffixcs, but I'd still like to hear what others think.

To add to my original question, I thought it would be important to know that I have a 10L critter cage. Also, I tried using a UTH, and I ended up returning it because it didn't seem like it was heating well enough. It only brought the temp up to about 72-74 degrees.
Click to expand...


What are you using for a substrate? My UTH is at 110 max! I have to go get a thermostate tomorrow to turn it down...
 
PssdffJay said:
What are you using for a substrate? My UTH is at 110 max! I have to go get a thermostate tomorrow to turn it down...
Click to expand...

I use Desert Blend Lizard Litter. It's crushed walnut shells.
 
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