I have been given differing information regarding our corn snake Phoenix's heating reqirements. Originally we were sold our 2 year old from a pet shop with a 4ft x 2ft x 18" viv, heat mat and UV light. From searching online we realised the UV light sould not be used and we needed a stat for the mat which was sorted immediately. I took Phoenix to an acctual reptile shop and they sexed him and gave him a quick look over but advised me that he needed a 60W lamp in hs viv on 24hrs to incease the ambiant air temp in his viv. Just a little confused as to wether the lamp is to be on a stat also or if it is actually needed? Also what is the best way to keep them at a stable temp during the winter months?
Ambiant air temp isn't really an issue as corns are generally ground dwelling so they get the warmth they need from the ground. I'm not sure of anything that says they need a certain ambiant air temp, and I will say most people here won't monitor it either.
As for winter, the thermostat will keep the warm end stable all year round and the cool end will be fine at what ever your house temp is. Main thing is they have the warm/cool to thermoregulate themselfs.
You say the UV light should not be used, a 2% UV light will do no harm and I believe has it's benefits but nothing stronger. As long as your heat mat covers a 1/3 to 1/2 of the floor area you will not require a 60w bulb unless your viv is in an extremely cold environment. Corns are hardy snakes and you have a large viv so as long as your mats are up to it all should be fine but if you do decide to use a bulb for extra heat it will need to be controlled by a stat.
a bulb on 24/7 will not give a 'night time' either. I really don't see the point of using a light as a heater, it costs a lot more to run than a proper heat bulb (ceramic)
Heating issues
Posted - 18/07/2012 : 14:56:38
