Ball pythons are great pets for new snake owners, they are very easy to take care of and are not difficult to maintain. However, it is still important to properly set up their habitat like the other reptiles. Let’s find out more about the perfect lighting for ball pythons.

Does A Ball Python Need UVB Lighting?

With some exception of uncommon pet snakes like a Burmese python, boa constrictor, and green snakes, using a UVB light in a snake’s enclosure is unnecessary. Will it negatively affect your snake’s health without UVB lighting? No, in fact, it would somehow increase their activity and coloration. Ball pythons and other common pet snakes can be perfectly healthy without the use of UVB lights.

But if you decided to use one for your pet, make sure that the UVB bulb is about 10 to 12 inches away from your pet snake, and change the bulb every 6 months even if it’s still working out just fine. The UVB is made up of an invisible spectrum of light before the visible spectrum runs out the invisible spectrum of light will expire. Therefore, a UVB bulb doesn’t usually last more than 6 months, unless if the manufacturer of the bulb has proven it otherwise.

Heat Lights for Ball Pythons

Depending on your home’s temperature or your country’s temperature, you may or may not use a heat light to maintain a proper temperature in your snake’s enclosure. Like other pet snakes, a ball python also needs their own basking spot. Their basking spot’s temperature should be around 90 degrees, while their ambient temperature should be below the 80’s.

To make sure that you have the right amount of temperature in your snake’s enclosure, you should put an analog or digital thermometer on the side of your pet’s tank. Some bulbs that are often used for houses, would also emit enough heat to heat up your ball python’s tank. Some snake owners would use a heating pad instead of lights, it may heat up the tank, but it can be a bit difficult to maintaining and monitoring the proper temperature of the tank.

10 Best Light for Ball Python

Using a light bulb for your pet’s enclosure is not just about randomly choosing a bulb in the market, you should also consider the number of watts the light bulb has. Since a ball python doesn’t really require the use of UVB lights, getting a light bulb that could provide enough heat should do just fine.

And honestly, you shouldn’t really have to use a light bulb with more than 75W. And for a full-time lighting, you should just use a black/red bulb. If you need more visible light for your pet snake, you could use an LED or Fluorescent lamp.

Here are the best lights that you could use for your pet ball python:

1. OMAYKEY 75W Ceramic Heat Lamp

OMAYKEY 75W 2 Pack Ceramic Heat Lamp Bulb, Infrared Reptile Heat Emitter Heater Lamps Bulbs for Pet Brooder Coop Chicken Lizard Bearded Dragon Turtle Snake Aquarium, No Light No Harm (ETL Listed)

• The 75W infrared heat lamp is made of solid ceramics element, it has a perfect heat radiation feature and no light emitted, not disturb reptile's normal sleep schedule (day or night), great for pet, lizard, coop, chicken, turtle, snake, chameleon, bearded dragon
• This ceramic heat lamp is simple and easy to install, just screw it into a standard porcelain E27 screw socket (ATTENTION: Use only with a porcelain socket, because the plastic socket may melt the lamp holder)
• This white heat lamp bulb is ETL Listed, input voltage is AC 90-120V, power is 75-Watts, full size is diameter 2.95 inch x height 3.94 inch
• This infrared ceramic heat emitter bulb is the perfect 24 hour heat source for reptiles and amphibians. It could last 9000-15,000 hours, even longer
• This bulb‘s surface temperature is very high when working, please do not use your hand to test the temperature. Do not touch the heat lamp immediately after turning off, please wait at least 1 hour to cool down. Also please adjust the distance between the heat lamp and the pets

$12.44

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This 75W heat lamp is made up of solid ceramic elements, which could perfectly provide a heat radiation feature without emitting lights. This ceramic light is very simple to use and install, just screw it in an E27 screw socket and it will instantly provide your snake’s needs. The bulb is perfect to be used for 24 hours as your pet’s main heat source. Perfect for all kinds of reptiles and amphibians alike, the bulb can last for 9,000 to 15,000 hours or 375 to 625 days. It could last for 2 years or even more.

Since the ceramic heat lamp doesn’t emit light, meaning it can be used during the night without it disturbing your pet’s sleeping pattern. When installing the bulb in your pet’s enclosure, make sure that your pet cannot reach or touch the bulb to avoid complications.

 2.Wuhostam 50W Black Infrared Bulb

[asin=B071GKDXBL]

Here is another good ceramic bulb, but this time it comes with a black bulb. Like the previous light bulb, this ceramic does not also emit light, meaning it can be used in your ball python’s enclosure for 24-hours, day and night. The lamp’s input voltage should be around 90 to 120V with a power of 50W. The amount of power that this bulb emits would be enough for your pet’s needs.

The bulb could work for 9,000 to 15,000 hours, so there is no rush in changing it every 6 months. This bulb could emit heat that can be a perfect heat source for a lot of amphibians and reptiles. Note: while the bulb is in use, the surface would be very hot so please do not touch it. Also, make sure that there’s enough distance between the bulb and your ball python.

 3. Evergreen Pet Supplies 75W Infrared Heat Lamp

Since ball pythons also need a good basking spot, this light bulb could just provide them with enough basking light. This infrared heat lamp could provide a powerful source of heat emission for your pet at night, the light bulb does not emit light is can be used to provide heat for your pet during the night.

This light is perfect to be used with a wide variety of amphibians and reptiles including snakes, hermit crabs, chameleons, lizards, geckos, bearded dragons, monitors, chuckwallas, iguanas, and more. However, the light bulbs are small, meaning the expected lifetime of the light bulb could only be 800 to 1,000 hours. The manufacturer of this product has conducted a 3-step test on their light bulbs upon production, the conducted steps ensure that the bulb works properly for the benefits of pet owners.

4. Blue Spotted 75W Sunning Heat Lamp

[asin=B00LMS3330]

These Sunning Heat Lamps provides a really nice basking heat for amphibians, reptiles, birds, farm animals, and small animals. To avoid overheating, you should use the light for only 10 to 12 hours a day. The heat lamp emits a broad-spectrum of light that is good for live plants in your pet’s terrarium, it could also provide UVA rays and heat for your ball python, which is good for their health.

The UVA and heat that the light bulb emits can also provide a good thermoregulation. It could stimulate the natural effect of sunlight to promote a strong and healthy reptile, which also includes your ball python. Aside from UVA and Heat, this heating lamp could also facilitate the natural behaviors in reptiles. The light bulb could last for 2,000 hours or more.

5. Zoo Med Day and Night Reptile 60W Bulb

Sale

Zoo Med Day Night Reptile Bulbs (60 watts) Combo Pack

• Pack of two bulbs - one daylight blue and one nightlight red
• Blue bulb provides heat with bright naturalistic light for day
• True red glass heat lamp offers 24 hour heating

$14.15

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The package includes one blue daylight bulb to use during the day and one red nightlight bulb to use during the night. This is a perfect combo pack that could provide all the needs of your pet ball python. The Zoo Med Day and Night Combo Pack could help you control the temperature, keeping your ball python comfortable and warm.

The daylight bulb is perfect for heating amphibian and reptile terrariums, while also providing a bright, naturalistic light for a good view. The nightlight bulb provides a 24-hour heat source for all kinds of reptiles, especially for the nocturnal reptiles. When changing out the light bulbs, make sure to turn it off and at least let it cool down for an hour before touching the bulb. This is to prevent yourself from getting burned by the bulb’s hot surface, also make sure to put enough distance between the bulb and your snake.

6. Exo Terra Repti-Glo 2.0 Fluorescent Lamp 26W

[asin=B00101IC7G]

Here is an ideal spectrum for all types of reptiles and amphibians. This Exo Terra fluorescent lamp could help stimulate your ball python’s activities, appetite, and its reproductive behavior through the bulb’s UVA radiation. However, the light has a visual light output so it is not ideal to be used during the night.

Aside from stimulating appetite, activity, and the reproductive behavior of your pet, the fluorescent lamp could also stimulate the live plant’s growth in your pet’s terrarium. The Exo Terra 2.0 fluorescent lamp could emit 2% of UVB light, ball pythons don’t really need UVB lights, but since they usually get exposed with sunlight when in the wild, being exposed with a few UVB rays won’t do any harm on them.

7. Glolux 11W LED Light Bulb

Glolux 75 Watt Equivalent LED Light Bulb, 1100 Lumen, Daylight 5000K 11 Watt, Non-dimmable 25,000 Hour Lifespan, A21 E26 Base Pack of 6

• Ideal for energy saving – this 11 watt LED bulb saves 80% more energy, replacing standard incandescent 75 watt light bulbs.
• Exceptionally long life - guaranteed lifespan of 25,000 hours, lasting over 22 years, significantly reducing the hassle of replacing bulbs often.
• Qualified safety approval – UL listed as safe, environmentally friendly, and mercury free. With 5 years warranty and 30 day money-back guarantee.
• Easy installation – designed to have the same shape and size as incandescent bulbs with standard E26 socket,so you can replace your traditional bulbs easily.Install indoor or outdoor, directly on ceiling or pendant fixtures, and table or floor lamps.
• 5 Years Warranty: Hassle-free 30 days money back guarantee & 5 years warranty with friendly customer service.

$18.99

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I have somehow mentioned earlier that some household light bulbs, can also be used as a ball pythons source of heat and light. Here is a good household light bulb that can provide your ball python’s needs. This light bulb has a small power of 11watts, this is ideal for you if you want to provide the best light for your pet, and at the same time save energy.

Also, it has a very long lifespan that can last for up to 22 years. It has a guaranteed lifespan of 25,000 hours, this will reduce your hassle of replacing your pet’s light bulb frequently. The bulb is safe, mercury-free, and environment-friendly, perfectly safe for your ball python.

8. Aiicioo 60W Ceramic Heat Bulb

[asin=B017RCQ4JO]

Here is another ceramic light bulb that will emit a 24-hour heat source for your pet. It creates a natural sunlight effect in a uniform pattern and could last for up to 10,000 hours. This ceramic bulb produces a long wave of infrared heat that will effectively warm up your pet snake. It also increases the air temperature in its terrarium.

It is a no light emitted bulb, meaning you can also use it by night without disturbing your pet’s sleeping pattern, perfect for an everyday use. The heating bulb is made up of high-purity pot clay, suitable for environments that have a high level of humidity. The pot clay also has an anti-crack ability, preventing the bulb from breaking in high humidity terrariums.

9. Zoo Med Nightlight Bulb 60W

Sale

Zoo Med Nightlight Reptile Bulb, 60-watt, Red

• Economical 24 hour heat source to keep you pet comfortable.
• Recommended for all types of reptiles, amphibians, birds, or small animals.
• Bulb is made from true red glass, not painted or coated, so it transfers heat better.
• Little visible light won't disturb sleep patterns.
• European quality for a long lasting burn life.

$20.39

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For those who are looking for a light bulb to use at night for their ball pythons, then this nightlight bulb is what you need. The red glass of the bulb is not painted, it is a real red glass. It’s also very economical and reliably provides heat and light for your pet 24-hours. It only emits a little bit of light so that it won’t disturb your snake’s sleeping pattern.

Zoo Med lights can last long and most pet owners have reported that their pet’s love the product, both reptiles and amphibians alike. The light emits a power of 60 watts, this is sufficient for ball pythons.

10. Zoo Med Basking Spot Lamp 75W

[asin=B00025YW8E]

Ball pythons, like all other reptiles and amphibians, also needs a good basking spot in captivity. This could help them shed their skin, improves health and appetite. This is a spotlight lamp, you can focus the light in a certain area in your snake’s terrarium.

You can use this light bulb 10 to 12 hours a day, though make sure to place where your pet can’t touch. When used, the bulb’s surface can be very hot, it can burn your pet when the bulb is placed too close. This bulb is ideal for reptiles that thermo-regulates their body by basking, that includes your ball python and other tropical and desert species.

Conclusion

Ball pythons are primarily nocturnal, they don’t really need a UVB light to live during captivity. However, it’s also not bad to use a full spectrum light with a small output of UVB light, like a 2.0 bulb. The small output of UVB light can improve your snake’s colors, it can also help grow the live plants that you use in your pet’s terrarium.

Since ball pythons are tropical snakes, they may not need UVB light but they do need a good heat source in their enclosure. They need a daytime temperature of 80 degrees and a nighttime temperature of 70 degrees or lower.

The post 10 Best Light for Ball Python Reviews 2022 appeared first on My Life Pets.

And since you will be spending money, it would be great to choose the best possible incubator in the market today. After all, reptile keepers who choose to invest in poor quality incubators end up with a handful of dead eggs as a result of improper humidity and heating.

You don’t want that and we certainly do not want that for you. So, we have gathered here only the best reptile incubators to help you with your reptile breeding.

Hova-Bator Still Air Reptile Egg Incubator

The Hova Bator actually calls itself the best small incubator in the world. And although the brand has a strong group of followers among poultry keepers, this very item can now also be enjoyed by the reptile keepers, thanks to their “still air incubators”.

Now, Hova Bator removed the egg turning functionality so that every reptile keeper can now successfully use it. This particular reptile incubator features a chest-style design with 2 glass windows in the lid so you can observe your incubating eggs.

It is quite neatly designed and comes with a ventilation system which heats the air inside and allows a gentle rise up through the vents, while fresh air is taken through the vents at the bottom part ad warmed. This system helps in preventing the buildup of “stale air” which encourages mold to grow on the reptile eggs.

Designed specifically for reptile breeders, this reptile incubator pack also includes several handy accessories. There are the stand-alone hygrometer and thermometer for measuring the condition within the incubator. Then there is the provision of pots and substrate into which you can place your reptile eggs and ensuring that they only get the best possible care.

The only downside of this amazing reptile incubator is that it does not have a cooling system and only one for warming. However, this does not seem to affect the eggs or results at all.

Happybuy ReptiPro Reptile Incubator

You probably have not heard about the ReptiPro before this article. This handy reptile incubator is sold by lots of Amazon sellers and is one of the top recommendations of most reptile keepers.

The ReptiPro 6000 is an upright reptile incubator which looks like your favorite beer fridge. It features 2 movable shelves and a small area at the bottom where water can be added to raise the humidity inside the device.

Being dimension-wise, this reptile incubator only measures 24 cm deep, 27 cm wide and 37 cm tall. These are internal dimensions which only means that this reptile incubator offers quite a generous amount of space suitable for incubating a large group of reptile eggs.

But, the biggest reason as to why most reptile keepers love this incubator is because of its extremely accurate and precise temperature controls. The reptile incubator can maintain temperature from 0°C – 40°C or 32°F – 104°F that is controlled through a digital readout. Such temperatures are suitable for any reptile eggs— from ball pythons to tortoises, to corn snakes and bearded dragons.

The ReptiPro is also one of the very few reptile incubators which actually has a cooling system as well as a heating setting which offers superior control on the internal temperature. Moreover, since this incubator comes with a cooling function, it can also be used for herps which require a winter cooling period— like some amphibians— offering you versatility.

Zoo Med ReptiBator Reptile Egg Incubator

From the reptile keeping experts comes the oddly-named “ReptiBator”— Zoo Med’s very own “tub style” reptile incubator. Not like the Hova Bator with 2 small windows in its lid, the ReptiBator maintains complete visibility because of its clear lid. This feature might actually be useful for people who wish to make a quick visual check on their incubating reptile eggs.

The ReptiBator can control temperatures between 15°C – 40°C or 59°F – 104°F although some reptile breeders complain that this one is not always completely accurate, unlike the ReptiPro. Meanwhile, it is nice to note that the manufacturer offers a built-in temperature alarm which can be handy in case of major problems like a power interruption and is designed so that when electricity is restored, this reptile incubator remembers your pre-selected temperature choice and re-establishes it as quickly as possible.

The ReptiBator also offers a quite generous amount of space with dimensions of roughly 15” x 15” x 6” which is enough to house multiple clutches of egg at one time. One final point worthy of mentioning is its reservoir built at the base which allows you to pour in some water and placing a foam matting down and carefully placing your incubation containers. This is such an efficient and easy way to increase the humidity inside the incubator.

Unfortunately, some user complains about its cheap and flimsy build quality. Users claim that it might be quite overpriced for its construction. Also, this incubator only heats, and does not have any cooling system in case of overheating.

Exo Terra Reptile Egg Incubator

Another popular brand name in the pet supply industry, the Exo Terra will not miss the opportunity to provide its very own reptile incubator. This particular model is one of the more commonly-encounters egg incubators in reptile stores. Unfortunately, just because they are regularly stocked does not necessarily means that they are the best solution for incubating reptile eggs. However, it still has some great features that you might want to consider.

Superficially, the Exo Terra incubator looks similar to the ReptiPro 6000. But in terms of reliability, this model has much to be desired. Unlike conventional incubators, this model automatically starts its cooling system when the temperature exceeds the desired incubation temperature. It also automatically switched back to its heating mode, when the temperature drops too much. Such cooling and heating combination is actually useful during rapidly changing environments.

It comes with digital temperature control and a bright LED indicator as well as a dual slide out shelves in order to maximize incubation space. It also has an interior light switch in order for you to easily monitor your reptile eggs without disturbing the incubation process. Eco Terra also offers a slide-out tray at the bottom for adding water to provide humidity inside.

Great as it may sound, some other reptile keepers reported that this device does have a short lifespan as well as an issue in maintaining suitable temperature and that it would just suddenly die without any warning. This might cause numerous failed clutches especially if you do not have any “spare” incubators.

Little Giant Still Air Reptile Incubator

The Little Giant Still Air Incubator Kit is another great reptile egg incubator that comes with everything needed for your hatchling success. This incubator is well-built and sturdy enough, and yet so lightweight that you can easily move it around your house if required.

Its lid comes with 2 large viewing windows in order to make checking your reptilian eggs convenient and easy without opening the incubator so that no humidity or temperature fluctuations happen.

The incubator’s interior contains a 40-watt heating element and also include both hygrometer to monitor humidity and a thermometer to monitor the temperature inside— both of which can be viewed through the LCD digital display. If necessary, each can also be adjusted and changed using those buttons placed under its digital display.

And just like the Hova Bator incubator, this model also comes as a kit complete with substrate and bowls, making it a perfect choice for amateur breeders. With the included accessories, clutches can each be placed to separate bowls which contain moisture-retaining substrate which is quite helpful since it secures and keeps the eggs from drying out.

This also means that you can easily add additional water when requires in order to monitor and keep moisture levels on individual clutches. And the fact that they are in bowls only means that they are very easy to move or remove from the incubator for inspection.

The only downside is that this incubator needs to be placed at room temperature in order to properly work. So, when the season is a bit crazy, who knows what will happen to your precious clutches.

R-Com PX-390 Juragon Pro Reptile Egg Incubator

The Juragon Pro Reptile Egg Incubator from R-Com is not as popular as the other products on this list, but it comes with a worthy reputation among breeders. For one, it features a well-built and large construction with a carrying capacity of up to 100 eggs at once. So, if you are a full-time reptile breeder, this may be a great choice for you.

Also, due to its different settings available, this egg incubator is suitable for a wide range of reptiles including turtles, lizards, and snakes. The incubator features a large screen on the lid, offering an easy viewing for your eggs as well as making inspections a hassle-free process. Its foam tray inside gives you the freedom to add the desired substrate as well as positioning the eggs in roomy arrangements. Plus, there’s also a handy waterhole in its exterior for adding water without disturbing the internal environment conditions.

Now, that’s not the best part yet! Its best features are its user-friendliness and extremely easy to understand interface that makes it great for beginners. Everything on this incubator is labeled and easy for you to understand, including its plus / minus button for humidity and temperature alterations as well as everyday temperature gap function that helps handle ay temperature fluctuations. Lastly, the reptile incubator comes with a handy alarm that will alert you in case there are any sudden changes in the humidity or temperature inside the incubator.

RCom Digital Egg Incubator

Another great reptile incubator from R-Com, the Suro features automatic Egg Turning via the use of a turning cradle. The incubator also has a full temperature and humidity control, complete with an easy to read digital readout.

Featuring a high refined designed with a streamlined shape, this incubator can fit just about anywhere. Suitable for both beginner and professional breeder, it is suitable for both poultry incubation and reptile breeders. Humidity and temperature calibration and can be set by the user.

The incubator has a capacity of at least 24 eggs and comes with a large clear view window for viewing and egg inspections without disturbing the incubation process. It also includes a universal tray that can accommodate all egg types. The incubator is also among the easiest incubators to clean on the market today since it can be easily disassembled and assembled.

Conclusion

Breeding reptiles are such an extremely rewarding experience. However, there is no doubt that it does need a particular level of commitment— both in terms of study and time. But, just seeing the process of new life hatching right in front of your eyes is definitely worth the effort, and the process will teach you a lot and your passion for reptiles and with the natural world is bound to grow profoundly.

So, if you want to experience that, then a reptile egg incubator is a must. And choosing only the best reptile incubators I’ve given you from the above list the best way to ensure a successful and proper hatchling development and the experiencing the joy of breeding these wonderful creatures!

The post Top 7 Best Reptile Incubator Reviews 2022 appeared first on My Life Pets.

However, with the market offering so many different options, it might be quite difficult for you to decide which one fits your reptile needs. So, if you are currently scratching your head in trying to decide which one to choose, then I’ll gladly lend you a helping hand.

Here, I have compiled only the best reptile thermostats and made it easy for you to decide.

1. iPower Digital Heat Mat Thermostat

The iPower Digital Thermostat is Amazon’s Choice for “reptile thermostat” and is arguably the simplest and cheapest of all. This one is a simple mat, meaning that you only need to turn it on and off as necessary in order to maintain a good vivarium temperature.

This thermostat is not suitable for heat bulbs or ceramic heater and only works with low-powered heat mats. And just like heat mats, thermostat comes with a very simple design that lacks bells and whistles. Simplicity and reliability, this mat only needs to be plugged into your heat mat. No day or night variance, automatic cut off, just set the temperature and you’re good to go.

The mat displays temperature in Fahrenheit or Celsius and can be set from 40°F – 108°F or 5°C – 42°C. Keep in mind, however, that temperatures are dependent on the power of the heat mat itself.

Pros:

• Temperature control in cold or warm environments
• Highly versatile
• Easy plug-in operation
• Features LED indicator lights
• Cheap

Cons:

• Not enough to create extra warm hotspots

2. Habistat Dimming Thermostat

This thermostat from Habistat is designed to control light bulbs and provides one of the most accurate methods of temperature control. This dimming thermostat comes with 2 plug sockets which make it very easy to use.

It is very accurate and comes with handy features that once you set it on the dial as soon as it reached the desired temperatures, it will automatically shut the bulbs down. The thermostat can be also used on almost any heaters and once you set it up, it will run in the background, offering a stable environment for your reptiles.

Pros:

• Plug sockets are provided by the manufacturer
• Does not damage light-emitting sources
• Temperatures can be set beforehand
• Highly accurate
• Auto shut off
• 2 plug sockets

Cons:

• Not designed for non-light emitting heat sources

3. Herpstat 2

The Herpstat 2 is a digital proportional thermostat that is suitable for proportional heating. It is a system which constantly monitors and adjusts the amount of heat that it produces in order to maintain the target temperature.

This thermostat is suitable for initial warm-ups where soft start-up slowly applies power in order to avoid any damage that is caused by overpowering. It is ideal for heating a vivarium as well as managing humidity, lighting and cooling. Thanks to its selectable temperatures, this thermostat can simulate moonlight, sunset, and sunrise.

Individual night or day schedules can also be set as well as setting different temperatures for each output. In order to ensure its efficiency, it features a high or low-temperature tracking which monitors the heating system.

Pros:

• Temperature tracking to monitor heating system
• Precision temperature sensors
• Day or night schedules can be set
• Programmable
• Soft start-up to avoid damages caused by overpower

Cons:

• Not great if you are looking for a static temperature which does not vary throughout the day

4. Century Digital Mat Thermostat

Amazon Bestseller for Terrarium Heat Mats, the Century Digital Mat Thermostat offers an effortless heating setup by simply setting the temperature probe, plug the controller and use its 3 large button interface to choose your desired temperature setting.

Its digital display support units in both Celsius and Fahrenheit. The thermostat is handy with LED heating and its power indicator lights allow you to know the controller’s status even during the night or in total darkness. The controller features an easy to read display and a hanging tab inside a tough plastic housing.

Its cord for the temperature probe as well as the grounded 3-prong plug measures an extra 6 feet in length and is designed to suit almost any application you can imagine— heating, fermentation, brewing, rooting and germination.

Pros:

• ETL listed
• Extra-long cords
• Highly versatile
• Easy and effortless heating setup
• Bright, easy to read display
• Strong and sturdy housing

Cons:

• Not suitable in water

5. Vivarium Electronics VE-300 Thermostat

The VE-300 Thermostat is an upgrade of the previous thermostats from Vivarium Electronics. This proportional thermostat s a tabletop model that is designed to sit nicely on top of your cages or racks, so you do not have to worry about mounting it or dealing with stands.

Being a pulse thermostat, the VE-300 is ideal for ceramic heaters. Its temperature control range is 25°F – 140°F. Featuring an auto shut off features, it helps prevent overheating. It also comes with sound alarms (if requested) when particular temperatures are reached. This way, you will be alerted should the temperature in your vivarium suddenly drops.

Another great feature are that it offers an automatic lowering of temperature at night which makes your life a bit easier and allows a natural cycle of temperature throughout the day

It has a single outlet that can be easily expanded with the use of outlet strips, allowing it to control multiple heaters at once. Its standard display shows the current time of the day, current setpoint value and the current probe temperature settings. Featuring a 3-button keyboard, this thermostat is very easy to navigate through with its large backlit display making programming quite intuitive and easy.

The thermostat comes with a cool feature, stacking cases. It can stack on each other for a very professional and neat appearance. Both fuse and probe are easily replaceable and it comes with probe cord locks in order to prevent unintentional unplugging.

Pros:

• Stackable
• Large backlit display
• 3-button keyboard
• The single outlet can be expanded with the use of outlet strips
• Automatic temperature drop at night
• Auto shut off feature
• Sound alarms
• Ideal for ceramic heaters
• Tabletop model

Cons:

• Not recommended for incandescent bulb

6. Bayite Digital Outlet Thermostat

The Bayite Digital Outlet Thermostat uses independent heating and cooling in order to keep your vivarium in the right temperature range. With its waterproof sensor, this thermostat can control the temperature more accurately and features with a low or high-temperature alarm.

Although a perfect reptile thermostat, this product is also suitable for incubation, pet breeding or as an aquarium heater. It also comes with an automatic power on delay that helps protect its compressor for longevity.

Furthermore, with this thermostat, exhaust fans will do most of the work and start at about one every two minutes, making it the perfect product if you are looking to save some money on electricity.

Pros:

• Saves money on electricity
• Can be used as a cooler or heater
• Waterproof
• A wide range of uses
• Temperature alarm
• Automatic power on delay

Cons:

• Does not have a timer

7. WILLHI WH1436A Digital Thermostat

This digital thermostat from WILLHI can be used to turn on and off electric appliances at the desired temperature. The thermostat features low and high-temperature alarms, which notify you when the desired temperature is reached, or when temperature overshoots or suddenly drops.

It also comes with an auto-shutoff timer that should help you save on electricity as well as keeping your life easier. In order to help keep the temperature at the desired range, this thermostat turns on or off your device at a certain set of degree, switching easily from refrigeration to heating mode.

A great thermostat controller, it can also be used for electric radiators, accelerating germination, aquariums and home brewing.

Pros:

• Auto shut off timer
• Can switch from refrigeration to heater
• Versatile for various uses
• Temperature alarms
• Waterproof thermocouple included
• Compressor safety timeouts

Cons:

• Does not include the battery

8. Inkbird Dual Stage Digital Thermostat

This digital thermostat from Inkbird is so easy to set up making it a perfect item for those who are not an expert in handling reptile thermostats. Featuring a dual display window, you can check measure temperatures and set temps at the same time. With the built-in dual relay output, you can connect it to heating refrigeration equipment at the same time.

In case of damage, its sensor can be easily replaced. Also, when a sensor error or an over-temperature occurs, an alarm will go off that allows you to identify the problem quickly and easily. This thermostat also supports reading in Fahrenheit and Celsius units, making it extra convenient.

Pros:

• Includes a manual
• Temperature calibration
• Over temperature and sensor fault alarm
• Dual relay output
• Reading in both Celsius and Fahrenheit
• Dual display window

Cons:

• Not suitable for water tanks

9. Leviton TBL03-10E Slide Control Lamp Dimmer

Leviton is specialized in producing lighting controls and dimmers, bringing Energy Smart Living to your home. This tabletop slide control dimmer is suitable if you wish to adjust the light in your tank, depending on the hour of the day which allows you to simulate sunset or sunrise and nighttime with no problem at all.

This device cannot only be used for reptile tanks. It can also be used around the house and can replace standard wall switches in order to provide immediate savings on your electricity bills.

The devices require no installation and are compatible with halogen, incandescent, and dimmable CFL and LED bulbs. Furthermore, its 6-foot cords make it easier to reach any outlet.

Pros:

• Versatile use
• 5-year warranty
• Tabletop design
• 6-foot cord
• Requires no installation
• Compatible with halogen, incandescent, and dimmable CFL and LED bulbs
• Cheap

Cons:

• Dimmer is a bit quirky
• Not specifically designed for tanks

10. Vivarium Electronics VE-200D Thermostat

Another dimming thermostat, the VE-200D from Vivarium Electronics offers the same quality experience you should expect from the new VE-300, but with the inclusion of incandescent heat lamps.

Featuring a slightly different temperature range from the VE-300m the VE-200D is capable of controlling temperatures between 40°F – 150°F. The thermostat can also control heaters with a total of up to 700 watts and offers a day or night temperature drop as well as an automatic safety shutoff in case of high temperatures and saving cost in electricity,

It has a full backlit display that makes it easier to read during nighttime. The thermostat can also remember the last temperature setting during a power failure

Pros:

• High controlling temperatures
• Control heaters of up to 700 watts
• Day or night temperature drop
• Auto shut off feature
• Suitable for incandescent heat lamps
• Full backlit display

Cons:

• Not suitable for fluorescent bulbs and mercury vapor

Conclusion

As we all know, reptiles love some heat, but they also need some cool space to hang out. So, what better way to regulate their tank temperature than the best reptile thermostat out there? Regardless of what you choose from the above list, you will have a quality and valuable purchase with every item.

The post Top 10 Best Reptile Thermostat Reviews 2022 appeared first on My Life Pets.

A humidifier can purify the air that can give the comfort, safety, and health benefits to your pets. This is a great idea if they have allergies because properly humidified air can reduce the symptoms. It can even save you from veterinary bills and free you from worries.

Top 10 Best Reptile Humidifier

There is a lot of reptile humidifier available in the markets today. It comes in a variety of foggers, misters, and different materials to help regulate the humidity. Make sure to research well what is best suited for your reptile before buying one.

To help you decide, here are some of the best reptile humidifiers:

1. Evergreen Reptile Humidifier

This reptile humidifier is perfect for your reptile that is in need of a moist environment. It is easy to assemble with full sets of instructions and tips that can offer a longer lifespan compared to another humidifier. The Evergreen Pet Supplies Reptile Humidifier’s tank can hold up to two liters and has a no-spill valve, flexible adjustable hose, and a dry-run protection which automatically shuts off when it is empty.

Pros

• It gives a consistent output and well-built.
• It runs quietly, ideal for indoor use.

Cons

• The tank is hard to refill, you need to remove everything and put it back again.
• The humidifier only lasted only for a shorter period than it promised.

2. Coolspider Reptile Humidifier Fog Machine Mister

This reptile humidifier is an ultrasonic cool mist fog machine with a durable and flexible hose that automatically shuts off when the water level is low. It has a powerful fog output that can fill up ultra-fine cool mist into a large tank cage. The Coolspider Reptile Humidifier Fog Machine Mister is ideal for humidifying a terrarium or vivarium with a natural fog cool and full anion to make their habitat fresher.

Pros

• It is great in giving the amount of fog you need for you reptile housing.
• It has a high-quality warranty for about a year after the purchase date.

Cons

• The release mechanism does not allow water to enter the ultrasonic base to create mist.
• The tube does not always stays or seals the place.

3. Aiicioo Reptile Humidifier Fogger

This reptile humidifier has a humidification system that is one of the key accessories for many reptiles and amphibians such as geckos, snakes, turtle, iguanas, frogs, and a variety of plants. It has a large three-liter tank that you can set the desired mist level and non-stop humidifier for up to 12 to 24 hours. The Aiicioo Reptile Humidifier Fogger has an automatic shut-off when the water runs out and turns it on again after refilling it.

Pros

• It has an almost no-noise feature under 30 decibels that is great for you and your pet’s sleeping habit.
• It has a large tank that reduces your job in changing the water on a regular basis.

Cons

• The item worked great in the beginning but started leaking a few weeks after.
• The warranty is just a month.

4. Zoo Med Reptirain Reptile Humidifier

This reptile humidifier has programmable misting for terrariums, cages, and indoor gardens. It has four spray interval settings and duration settings. The Zoo Med Reptirain Automatic Terrarium Mister contains mounting hooks, 6-watt AC adaptor, remote nozzle extension, and suction cup hold down.

Pros

• It is fully programmable, portable, and easy to use.
• It is perfect for dry climate places.

Cons

• The spray end has the tendency to drip and leak.
• The misting system stops after a month and you need to pay for the repair.

5. Oiibo Reptile Humidifier

This reptile humidifier works silently as it infuses clean and moisturized air that provides your reptiles the moist environment they need. It easy to refill just by pouring water into the orifice at the bottom of the tank. The Oiibo Reptile Humidifier is easy and safe to use for a wide variety of reptiles and amphibians.

Pros

• It is really easy to fill the tank from the bottom.
• It is impressive how quiet the unit is while working.

Cons

• The item works great except that it is difficult to clean inside.
• The mist comes out sometimes and the tubes collect a lot of water.

6. Zoo Med Reptile Fogger Humidifier

This reptile humidifier has the ability to increase the humidity inside the terrarium with adjustable fog output control. It contains a no-spill valve which makes it easy to refill the water bottle. The Zoo Med Reptile Fogger Terrarium Humidifier can be used with a Zoo Med HygroTherma to have an exact control to the humidity and temperature.

Pros

• It comes with a 1-liter bottle, no-spill valve, and all the necessary fittings.
• It has a 3-month warranty.

Cons

• The vaporizer got clogged and broken after.
• The humidifier stopped within a month of use.

7. Blue Spotted Deep Jungle Fogger

This reptile humidifier provides the necessary moisture and humidity for your pets’ well-being. It has a compact design, adjustable flow control, and fan-less for silent operation. The Blue Spotted Deep Jungle Fogger promotes a healthy, safe, and natural behavior of the reptiles by giving the right humidity level and environment.

Pros

• It gives a deep jungle rainforest environment with its cool-mist compact ultrasonic fogger.
• It is ready to use that includes a mounting clip, extendable hose, and no-spill attachment.

Cons

• The product did not seem to turn above 75% of its power.
• The fogging tube got leaky and broke quickly.

8. AGPTEK Mist Maker Fogger Air Humidifier

This reptile humidifier is using an ultrasonic electronic technology to create a magical effect on your tanks, ponds, and even swimming pools. It can produce a large amount of mist that with no heat or chemical used. The AGPTEK Mist Maker Fogger Air Humidifier is safe, easy to operate and strive to offer customer satisfaction.

Pros

• It has an attractive LED lights that change colors randomly.
• It has an output voltage of 24 volts that is very safe to use in the water.

Cons

• The mist maker is messy and dangerous as it spits water everywhere.
• The spray drops all over and empties the water into the container quickly.

9. ESUMIC Mist Maker Fogger Air Humidifier

This reptile humidifier is best for terrariums, indoor foundations, and other decoration use. It is easy to install and convenient to operate with 12 automatically changing colors LED lights to add an amazing look to the rockery. The ultrasonic atomizer releases negative ions which makes the air fresher and healthier by reducing the dust and bacteria.

Pros

• It adds a stunning mist effect to any tank or pond.
• It filters the bad smell with its electro and ultrasonic technology.

Cons

• The unit started to corrode on the outside after days of use.
• The fogger stopped working within 2 weeks.

10. Pravono Reptile Fogger Humidifier

This reptile humidifier can give your pets a fresh, healthy, and moist skin by using distilled or pure water. It has two mist working modes that is super silent when running. The Pravono Reptile Fogger Humidifier can be used as a flowerpot, where green plants can grow on top.

Pros

• It has a large water capacity that can use for a long time without adding water every time.
• It is super portable with its small size.

Cons

• The packaging has no proper directions.
• The item is quite expensive.

Now that you know some of the best reptile humidifiers, you can choose from these top 10 what is right for your pets. Along with pros and cons, you can balance which one to buy. These reptile humidifiers can be found in the nearest pet stores or online shops.

Proper Caring for Reptiles

If a dog or cat seems to be a bit ordinary for your taste, then maybe choosing a more exotic animal like cold-blooded creature can satisfy your needs. Reptiles and amphibian, known as herptiles, have different requirements and needs special care. So before you visit a pet shop to get your own lizard or snake, there are few important things you need to consider, and here are some of them:

1. Reptile Size

Different cities, states, and countries have specific rules for keeping certain kinds of reptiles. There are endangered and protected creatures that will require you to several regulations. You can check with your local wildlife department to give you information with regards to pet a reptile.

When it comes to considering reptiles as pets, size matters. You need to make sure how big or small the animal up until it reaches its maturity so you will know the size of your tank. Although it does not mean that their growth will not be fully developed, however, their health will be affected.

2. Reptile Housing

Thinking about what kind of cage your reptile will need is also important. Their habitat must provide them enough space to move around and escape-proof for your convenience. Animals like snake grow a massive size so it is essential to have the appropriate vivarium or terrarium for them.

Maintaining your reptile’s cages clean can keep your pet’s health in shape. Animals are also susceptible to bacteria and infections like salmonella that can be transmitted to humans. You must schedule a regular cleaning and periodically disinfecting the reptile’s cage for a healthier environment.

3. Reptile Nutrition

There are a lot of commercial diets available for reptiles but giving them fresh foods is better. Some of them need worms and mice, while others require fruits and vegetables. You must be willing to put in some effort and money to provide the food they need.

Also, it is not enough that you can feed them with the right foods. Part of your job is to give them the necessary amount they need to consume in a day, week, or month. This way, you can maintain the well-being of your reptile while preparing yourself for budgeting your pet’s food expenses.

4. Reptile Temperature

Cold-blooded animals cannot maintain their body temperature on a regular basis. It is in your hand to give them the right temperature for them to survive. You can ask for professional help on the proper heating devices for the reptile you have chosen.

In cold weather, most reptiles need to feel warm, but that is quite hard especially indoors. Infrared heaters are gaining popularity because it can give the feel of sunlight through its infrared light. You can check for the best-infrared heaters out there that best suits your pet’s needs.

5. Reptile Humidity

One of the most essential things that your reptile need is the right amount of humidity. In their natural habitat, the reptile can create a stable humidity just by moving from one place to another, depending on the climate they need. There are animals that can develop serious health problems when they are in a dry place, while others can lead to fungus and bacteria with too much moisture.

That is why you have to make a way to provide the proper humidity in your pet’s tanks. It can be a vivarium with water filtration or a terrarium with air humidifier. You can also add alert devices so you will stay updated on the right humidity level.

If you want a pet that you can snuggle and play with, then reptiles are not for you. There is a different level of how much or how little care these species need. A lot of pet store which specializes in reptiles can guide you in safe ways of taking care of them.

Conclusion

It may seem a lot of sweat and effort to take care of a reptile, considering the special requirements they need to survive. However, they can make a terrific pet that can live long and healthy with proper guide and care. You just have to keep in mind that all pets should be treated just like a family member to help them live a happy life.

The post Best Reptile Humidifier & Foggers: Reviews & Guide 2022 appeared first on My Life Pets.

The ball python is one of the easiest snakes to acquire and are commonly available in pet shops, reptile expos, and breeders. They make a good pet since they are generally small in size, shy, easy to care for, friendly and comes with a remarkable array of patterns and colors. If you are taking care of or wish to have a ball python, in addition to caring for food, healing room you need to have a best ball python enclosure.

The Different Types of a Ball Python Cage

Whether you live alone or have a family, if you choose a ball python for a pet, then you will need some kind of enclosure or cage to ensure that your ball python remains a pet and not a threat to anyone’s safety. Because no matter what anyone says, a snake is a snake and most people will immediately think that it is scary and dangerous.

Just imagine a ball python getting out of its domestic habitat; that would be so terrible. Thus, picking the best ball python enclosure should be a top priority, especially if it is your first time.

Choosing a ball python enclosure or cage is indeed a very crucial process since you do not want your precious snake slithering around and scaring the hell out of people who encounter it (and the possibility of killing your pet). Basically, there are 4 different types of ball python enclosures:

Glass Tanks

Fishes glass aquariums were usually used as a python enclosure in the past few years because it offers an excellent view of the pet. However, glass tanks present a few difficulties, firstly because these enclosures are not designed for housing snakes. Another problem is that the ball pythons are by nature good at escaping, so you really want an enclosure that is escape proof. An aquarium’s lid is mostly improvised screens, thus it definitely won’t so.

Glass tanks have some advantage though. The glass retains moisture and heat better making it a good habitat for most reptiles, particularly baby ball pythons.

Wooden Vivarium

These types are considered far better than glass tanks because they were designed with the snakes in mind. It has a wooden surrounding which makes it really excellent in keeping humidity and warmth inside the enclosure. This also becomes a natural heat source, so you won’t have to pay extra on your electricity bills.

Moreover, a wooden vivarium can make your ball python feel more at home and safer. However, you need to select meticulously. Not all wooden vivarium are high quality and there are some who sell this type of enclosure which does not have the capacity to hold the stronger adult ball pythons.

Plastic RUBs

In the recent years, plastic enclosures have gained popularity for the ability to hold ball pythons. This is because of the in-depth experimentation by experienced breeders.

Exo Terras

The Exo Terras is perhaps the most popular enclosure for ball pythons nowadays. They are particularly designed for amphibians and reptiles and therefore will make a good home for your ball python. Exo Terras are usually designed with glass doors that makes viewing and access really easy for you. Moreover, this ensures that the enclosure will always have some breeze while making sure that your sneaky pet will never escape. Lastly, its simple design makes it one of the most attractive ball python enclosure available in the market today.

Top 10 Best Ball Python Enclosure

Because ball python can grow to unpredictable sizes, most owners choose to create their own ball python enclosure. In case, you need it urgently and build an enclosure for later, there are some enclosures available in the market which can accommodate a ball python. Here are the top 10 best ball python enclosure:

Deep Blue Professional Glass Standard Frag Aquarium Tank

This Aquarium tank from Deep Blue Professionals is specifically made for sea creatures but that does not mean that it can’t handle reptiles like ball pythons. The tank is made from thick distortion-free glass material for durability and visibility.

It also features diamond-polished edges, black seal with industrial strength and universally-sized injection molded frames for added sturdiness. The tank measures 18 x 12 inches, giving your reptilian buddy a lot of space to slither around.

SeaClear Acrylic Aquarium Junior Executive Kit

Another great enclosure, the SeaClear Aquarium is specifically made for the budding aquarist, however, you’ll be glad to know that it also makes a suitable enclosure for reptiles. Measuring 36 x 15 x 16 inches, it gives your ball python ample space to crawl and slither as well as adding branches to crawl on.

This enclosure is constructed from Acrylic that is at least 17 times stronger than glass an only weighs half its weight of the same size. The enclosure comes with a full hood to prevent any escapes and includes a 24 inches fluorescent fixture installed for lighting.

Carolina Custom Cages Terrarium

The all-new Carolina Custom Cages Terrariums are super easy to assemble and comes in various models and sizes so you can choose the perfect one for your slithering buddy. They’ve got models with hinged floors as well as sliding doors and waterproof base. All terrarium comes fully equipped with key-lock security in order to prevent any accidental escapes.

Carolina custom Cages also makes sure that the terrarium arrived at your home scratch and dent-free with an extra Styrofoam and tougher cardboard for a “box inside a box” packaging.

Exo Terra Glass Terrarium Mayan

This reptile enclosure from Exo Terra measures 18x18x24 inches, making it much suitable for ball pythons to live in. Its dimension is just right— not too small or too big, but is enough to give your ball python a lot of crawling and slithering spaces.

In addition, this ball python enclosure comes with 2 doors for an escape-free access. It also features a water-resistant base and front window ventilation. It has a stainless steel mesh cover which makes sure that your ball python will never find a way to escape.

Exo Terra Short All Glass Terrarium

An all-glass terrarium that measures 18x18x12 inches, this enclosure from Exo Terra is ideal for amphibian and baby reptiles like baby ball python to live in. It has front doors which can be opened separately for easy access and feeding. Moreover, it has a lock specially designed in order to prevent your ball python from sneaking out of its cage.

It features a full-screen top ventilation which allows infrared and UV penetration and is completely removable for easy cleaning. At the back of the screen cover, there are five closable tube inlets or wires on each side to install sensors or heat wave rocks inside.

Its bottom plate is raised in order to mount a substrate heater. It has a natural background and provides enough space for your ball python to slither through.

Exo Terra High Glass Terrarium

This ball python enclosure is much different than the other Exo Terra Terrarium in this list. This one is much higher and less wide than the others, making it suitable for baby to young ball pythons to climb and slither around.

Exo terra high has dual doors for easy access and feeding and a specialized lock that prevents unwanted opening from kids and your python slithering out into the world. It’s an all-glass terrarium which provides you a good viewing of your pet.

It has a waterproof base and a raised bottom frame to accommodate heaters and substrate. With its natural-looking background, your ball python will surely feel like home in the wild.

Exo Terra Short All glass Terrarium (24 by 18 by 12-Inch)

The Allglass Terrarium from Exo Terra is made of tough glass and is probably one of the most popular, trendiest ball python enclosure available today. Made and designed specifically for reptiles and amphibians, it comes in various sizes so that you have a lot of option on the correct size of the ball python that you are planning to take home as a pet.

The Exo Terra Allglass Terrarium is integrated with a patented front window ventilation which allows enough breeze to enter the enclosure and make sure that your ball python can breathe on some fresh air. Moreover, it features an elevated bottom frame for substrates and heaters. Its base is waterproof and keeps water from entering the cage

This ball python enclosure also comes with double click doors which are escape-proof making sure that your python will never see its long body outside the cage. Also, it has closable inlets for wiring and tubes management. What’s more is that it also features a distended ground surface which is extremely significant because ball python will need a lot of space to slither around.

Exo Terra Rainforest Habitat Kit

This reptile enclosure from Exo Terra has good size, making it much suitable for ball pythons to live in. Its dimension is just right— not too small or too big, but is enough to give your ball python a lot of crawling and slithering spaces.

In addition, this ball python enclosure comes with 2 doors for an escape-free access. It also features a water-resistant base and front window ventilation. It has a stainless steel mesh cover which makes sure that your ball python will never find a way to escape.

Exo Terra Allglass Large and Wide Terrarium

This ball python enclosure is pretty much the same as the previous one, although this one is much larger and wider, that is ideal to hold a fully grown ball python. It is made with the same tough, clear glass and a front window ventilation to allow your ball python have a good amount of fresh air.

It has a waterproof base and comes with an escape-proof door so you won’t have to worry about your ball python getting out and scaring people. With closable inlets for tubes and wiring and a really wider space than the other, this ball python enclosure will surely make you ball python happier with so much ground to cover.

Exo Terra Allglass Terrarium (for Baby Ball Python)

It’s boasts an exceptional design and is really a head-turning ball python terrarium. It is a 8-gallon enclosure which is also perfect for hermit, lizards, and amphibians. This enclosure features a flat-backed style so you can set it up on a wall while giving you a nice view of your pet.

This ball python enclosure from Exo Terra is made of long-lasting and tough metal screen which does not only give you the perfect view but also ensures that your ball python will never have a chance to escape. Its tough glass has been constructed with a seamless acrylic structure that provides perfect viewing every time.

The Ball Python Care Sheet

Ball Python Size

Hatchlings of ball pythons are around 10 inches in length. Adult male ball pythons have an average of 2 – 3 feet in size while female ball pythons can grow an average 3 – 5 feet long.

The ball python is a species of snakes in which the females are usually much longer than males. A 5-foot ball python is already considered big, however, there are reports of much longer ones.

Ball Python Lifespan

With proper caring, a ball python can live for 30 years or more. The recorded oldest age of a ball python is over 40 years.

Ball Python Feeding

You can feed a ball python with an appropriately sized rodent once every week. The term “appropriately sized” means that the prey is no bigger o circumference that the ball python at its biggest circumference.

Young ball pythons eat rats and moving up in size as they grow bigger.  They can also be fed with thawed/frozen or pre-killed rodents.

Never handle a ball python for at least a day after it fed. This is because ball python might regurgitate. It is also important to know that some ball pythons will not eat for a few hours after being handled, so try to avoid handling if you plan to feed it. Moreover, never leave a live rodent inside the enclosure, since they can injure your ball python.

Ball pythons are known to not eat at particular times of the year, especially during winter months. Moreover, snakes usually do not eat while that are in their shed cycle.

Ball Python Water

Always provide clean and fresh water for your ball python. The size of the water dish is completely up to you, however, it is important to note that a really large one gives your ball python an opportunity to crawl in and soak (ball pythons seems to love soaking from time to time)

Always check its water bowls from time to time since ball pythons are known to defecate in their water bowls.

Ball Python Temperament and Handling

In general, ball pythons are shy and prefer to do much hiding. And just like any other snakes, without trust, your ball python might see you as a threat.

Always support the body of your ball python and try to avoid any fast movements. Once a ball python realizes that you are not a threat, it will usually enjoy being handled. There are some ball pythons that will try to hide when handled and there are some that might even bite because of excessive fear. Such ball pythons will need more time to settle and establish trust.

Creating Your Ball Pythons’ Habitat

After you have chosen the best ball python enclosure, the next thing you will do is to decorate and customize the inside of the enclosure to accommodate the needs of your ball python.

There are a number of factors that you need to keep in mind when creating the best habitat for your ball pythons. Here are some:

Substrate

A dry substrate is required, but with the option for a higher amount of humidity, particularly during molting. The most common substrate used for ball python enclosure are paper towels and newspapers in terms of disinfecting and cleaning the enclosure. Orchid bark and cypress mulch are great substrates in controlling the humidity inside the enclosure. Also, take note to never use any substrate with cedar since it contains oils which are deadly for reptiles. Also, you might want to avoid using peat bedding, shavings, and sand as a substrate.

Temperature

Artificial heating is necessary in order for your ball python to feel comfortable. Keep in mind that enclosures need proper thermal gradient which your ball python can utilize, with a cool sot on one end of the enclosure and a hotspot on the other.

Provide your ball python with an ambient temperature of 78 – 80 degrees and a basking spot temperature of 88 – 96 degrees.

There are various ways of adding heat to your ball python enclosure. Basking bulbs (both red light bulbs and regular daytime bulbs), ceramic heat emitters, and heating tapes or pads. With basking bulb and heat emitters, it is important to keep an eye on the humidity within the enclosure, particularly if combined with screen tops, since both can dry the air rapidly.

Also, try to use rheostats, thermostats and/or timers in order to control your heat source. Never use hot rocks with ball pythons since they can heat unevenly over too small surface areas and can cause a very serious burn.

Lighting

Lighting is not very necessary for ball pythons, however, you use some when you use it through a 12/12 cycle (12 hours off and 12 hours on). A constant bright, overhead light is stressful to snakes, particularly the nocturnal species like the ball python.

Humidity

Ball pythons prefer a humidity level between 50 – 60 percent. It is crucial to maintaining the proper humidity since it will allow your ball python to shed properly.

Accessories to Hide

The best accessory that is needed for a happy ball python is a good hide box. Providing several secured hides for concealment mimics a ball python’s burrow. Ball pythons are very secretive snakes which appreciate privacy and utilize hide spots. Give your ball python some hiding spots on each end so that it will not have to choose between security and temperature. Plastic flowerpot trays, clay flowerpots, and commercially available hide boxes make a perfect hideout for ball pythons.

Conclusion

Considering a ball python as a pet requires special attention and care and an extraordinary enclosure or habitat. This is why you should take your time in choosing the best ball python enclosure in order to have a healthy snake pet and a safe home.

The post The 10 Best Ball Python Enclosure: Reviews & Guide 2022 appeared first on My Life Pets.

Choosing the best bedding for ball pythons is far from being easy. This is because there are a lot of different products to choose from that are available in the market and by the different opinions of a lot of internet forums.

Looking for the best substrate for your python can be hard, but to make your search a lot easier, in this article, it will discuss some of the best ball python beddings available in the market.

Let’s see what kinds of beddings are available.

About Substrate and Furnishings

Out in the wild, most pythons tend to live in savannas and grassland habitats, and primarily residing in rodent burrows underground. The relative humidity underground is much higher than above ground, the savanna is not actually a moist place, but pythons also tend to do well with a secure hide that is filled with damp moss. Most snakes are shy, by staying in a tight and mossy place, the snake will feel safer and secure than in open spaces.

When you use beddings for snakes, avoid using beddings made from cedar because it is toxic to all kinds of snakes.

And when you design your pet’s terrarium, always keep in mind that snakes have a secretive nature. They like places where they can constantly hide. Provide them with a lot of hiding places in all the cool and warm regions of its enclosure.

Also, add climbing structures where your snakes can coil themselves up, just avoid over-crowding your pet’s tank.

Maintaining the Snake’s Enclosure

It is necessary to always keep your python’s tank clean and spotless. If there are traces of urine and feces in the tank remove them as soon as you can.

You can do a complete tank cleaning every 30 days, remove all cage accessories and change all the used substrate or beddings if needed. Disinfect the tank with a 5 percent solution of bleach. Rinse it thoroughly with water and allow it to dry completely before returning or replacing the beddings, accessories, and of course, the snake.

Like mentioned earlier, pythons have a secretive nature and love places where they can hide. A good example of cage accessories is a couple of hiding boxes. Flowerpots can also be a good hide box for them.

12 Best Bedding for Ball Python

Like mentioned earlier, in this article it will help you choose one of the best bedding options for your pet snake. I will provide reviews and the products pros and cons to help you choose the best bedding for your pet

1. Coconut Husks

This is a kind of inert substrate, meaning it’s unlikely to have nasty parasites and bugs in it. This product is also environmentally friendly since it is a waste from coconut milk industries.

It also has other benefits when it is used as bedding for your bed snake. The coconut fiber can help absorb moisture and liquids inside the tank making it easier to clean it. They also smell good and look pretty great inside the tank.

The only downside of this kind of substrate is that how it quickly absorbs the moist and liquids, is the opposite when it’s time to dry out the fibers. This will make the tank more humid than before, so make sure that it’s dry before putting it in the tank.

2. Reptile Prime Coconut Fiber Bedding

This is a good substrate that actually holds humidity really well and it isn’t dusty like the sand.

A lot of people really love using this product because it has no smell, it can be easily cleaned, and it absorbs liquid really well. Not only is it loved by individuals, it is also loved by reptiles like the ball python. Owners said that since they’ve used reptile prime their pets have been tunneling through non-stop.

Also, it is not heavy, messy, won’t mold, and can absorb odors inside the enclosure. You can also use this bedding to grow plants with. The product has become really popular when Brian Barczyk, a well-known reptile breeder, has teamed up with the products’ company.

I honestly don’t see any downside from this product, it is definitely one of the best substrate available in the market.

3. Aspen Shavings

This is the most popular bedding for ball pythons, most snake owners prefer to buy this in the market because it is cheap and easy to carry home.

Because of the popularity of the product, they are pretty to find in online and physical pet stores. The beddings also look great in the snake’s tank because of its light color. The particles also look fluffy making them a good moist absorbent, it also helps urine, water spilled, and feces to dry out quickly keeping the tank fresh and clean.

Also, the snake’s seems to love digging through the shavings, especially the young ones. This can help add an environmental enrichment on the snake’s surrounding.

And honestly, I can’t really find a downside to this product. Though there are a few buyers that complain that the product is dusty. I personally think that they have accidentally a low-quality and thought that all products are the same.

4. Peat Moss

This is another great bedding for your pet snake, though it shouldn’t be used as your main substrate. This is best used when your pet is changing its skin, this kind of substrate can help remove its old skin faster

Moss bedding can increase the humidity of the tank helping your pet to have an easier time to shed out of its old skin. Most pet owners’ uses moss to create hides with moist.

The downside of this kind is that it can acquire mites or bugs in it because of the moist and dirt. But that can be avoided if the beddings are changed once or twice a week.

5. Cypress Mulch

Cypress bedding can be a good bedding choice if you want to increase the humidity level of the enclosure. If you open a bag of cypress mulch you will notice that the fresh ones are a bit moist. But if you don’t want an increase in the tanks humidity level then you can dry it out before putting it inside the enclosure.

If you are worried about mold growth due to its heavy moisture level, then don’t mind it because cypress mulch is very resistant to mold growth. Just a reminder though, before buying this kind of substrate, make sure that it only contains cypress mulch blend ONLY, some may include pine shavings that can also be toxic to snakes.

The downsides are that some chip size is big and sharp which can hurt your pet’s skin and it cannot be easily dug through by snakes. But all in all, it is still a good bedding choice for your snake.

6. Orchid Bark

If you don’t like the idea of using cypress mulch as a substrate for your python, then you can use an orchid bark as an alternative of cypress mulch.

Since it is an alternative to the previous substrate, it can also help increase the humidity level of the snake’s enclosure. But if you don’t want that then you can dry out the bark first under the sun before putting it in the tank.

The downside of this is that it can overly increase the humidity level of the tank especially if you live in a country that naturally humid.

7. Artificial Turf

Aside from using barks, shavings, and sand-like substrates for your reptile. You can also use artificial grass as bedding.

This can actually work well if you have multiple pieces of it, you can quickly change and remove the soiled pieces with clean ones as soon as you can. In that way, you’ll have enough time to clean and dry it off as long as you want. These materials are very to clean, durable and can last for a long time. You can actually save money with these.

The downside is that the appearance of the artificial grass may deteriorate from being repeatedly washed and your python cannot burrow in it. But it can be comfortable for them since it copies the texture of real grass.

8. Newsprint Bedding

This is one of the best bedding that you can buy for your royal pythons. Most owners that want to be economical and want an easy way of cleaning their pythons cages prefer to buy this one.

It’s fairly cheap on Amazon, can measure for up to 36” by 24”, and contains 325 sheets of newsprint. This is much better than using old newspapers because newspapers can imprint on a pet’s skin when wet.

The only downside is that it is not visually appealing and can a bit bad in the enclosure.

9. Reptichip Premium Coconut Substrate

This substrate is made from the highest quality of coconut that can be found anywhere around the world.

Like any great substrate products, this one can also absorb odors and liquids and retains humidity really well. It is a hundred percent organic and very sustainable. The product is also relatively clean, it doesn’t mites or any of the nasty bugs, it is dust-free, and since it can retain humidity well, you won’t have to mist the enclosure constantly.

The only downside of this product is that it is compressed and packed into a giant brick of chipped coconut, which you’ll have to add water to break it apart. But once you add it with water, it can expand to up to 2.5 cubic feet.

10. Carpet Bedding

This is another kind of substrate for your pet python’s enclosure. Like the artificial turf, this is good for snakes that burrow often. If you want to beddings like these, you should at least get a couple of pieces so that you can change it with a new one while you clean the soiled one.

It is very useful and easy to find in shops since a lot of people also use this as bedding for their pets. Sometimes you can even find unwanted pieces from garage sales. Not only that, they are cheap and can be used multiple time.

The downside is it gets soiled easily and should be changed on a regular basis.

Aside from the products above, you can also a corrugated cardboard as your ball python’s bedding. They come in sheets, easy to cut to easily fit in the enclosure, highly absorbent, inexpensive, and provide a very good exterior for your python.

11. Paper Towels

Aside from newsprints, you can also use paper towels as ball python bedding.

They are cheap, easy to remove, and can be a very comfortable bedding for your snake. You can also easily change the soiled ones with new paper towels as soon as you can. Though, this isn’t suitable if your pet often burrows on its bedding, but still a good option.

Like newsprints, the downside is that it doesn’t look really pretty in the enclosure.

If you are too lazy to go to the grocery store, then you can order a bundle of them in Amazon.

12. Lugarti Natural Bedding

This is a good substrate that actually holds humidity really well and it isn’t dusty like the sand.

This doesn’t contain bugs or other kinds of insects in it. Aside from being natural bedding, you can also mold it, make a landscape from it, and create a firm tunnel or burrows that won’t collapse. This substrate stays firm but is still easy enough for the pet to burrow itself in it.

Also, it is not heavy, messy, won’t mold, and can absorb odors inside the enclosure. You can also use this bedding to grow plants with.

I think the only downside from it is that it’s a bit expensive than other beddings.

The Humidity Level

Humidity is often mentioned on the products, as you know ball pythons also need a high level of humidity in their cages. So if you live in a cold place you can either buy a humidifier for your pet or buy beddings that can help increase the enclosures humidity level.

But if you already live in a place where it high in humidity then you can just buy one of the products above that doesn’t increase the humidity level of the tank. Keeping a good temperature in the tank is one of the key points to keep your snake healthy.

Conclusion

Well there you go, those are the best beddings that you can choose from in the market for your python’s tank. This substrate will help make your pet live much better by adding good flooring to your pet’s enclosure.

Just make sure to buy the appropriate bedding for your pet, the right substrates that’ll give off enough humidity, if you prefer then pick off the one that can give a nice visual appeal on the tank, easy to clean and change, and most importantly if it is liked by your pet python.

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