Snakes are cold-blooded, and therefore cannot regulate their own body heat. They will die if their tanks are either too hot or too cold. Be sure to keep your tank a constant temperature, or your snake might begin to hibernate. Corn snakes do well in a range from 70 to 82 degrees. One side of the tank should be room temperature, with the other side being the warming area. Never use heat rocks, as they can burn your snake.
Use full-spectrum fluorescent bulb for vitamin and mineral metabolism. An incandescent bulb can be added to the same fixture in the cage top to provide both light and heat. Remember that the higher the wattage, the higher the temperature. To prevent serious burns, your snake must not be able to touch the light in any way.Google Square Ad
There are several other heat options other than incandescent lights. Many snake owners find undertank pads or reptilian heat tapes quite handy. If you decide to use the heating pad, check it daily to be sure you are not cooking your snake. If it is too hot to touch, it is definitely too hot for your snake. You may place newspaper at the bottom of your tank under the bedding to dissipate the heat.
Heat tape strips do not get as hot as pads, and are a bit safer. They are sold in 3 inch wide or 11 inch wide pieces. You can get any length you wish. Do not completely cover the bottom of the tank with either the pads or the tape. Choose one end or the back side of the tank, so your snake has the option to move away from the heat. ALWAYS keep a thermometer in your tank.
