Royal Python-Python Regius & Other Snakes

Hi, I am getting my new royal in less than 2 weeks and can't seem to get the viv upto right temp. Highest it will go is 80.1!!!

We have an 18" by 10" plastic faunarium with a heat mat under the viv (the heatmat, thermostat and thermometer have all been checked seperately and all appear to work ok)

We have tried a very thin layer of substrate but didn't work so relpaced with kitchen roll and that didn't even work, if anything the temp declined!!

I really don't know what else to do now and am worried as time is ticking by!!

Can anybody help please?!?!?!

Either buy a higer wattage mat or get a viv and heating system.

80f or 26c is not the end of the world though, the only tiny concern I'd have is just after feeding as the heat helps food digestion. But at 26c there is no danger of the royal dieing, or even becoming ill of cold.

I tend to agree that this temperature isn’t the end of the world. CB Royals do tend to be resilient and adaptable to their captive environment to a certain degree. Having said that, I would suggest that you aren’t particularly getting an accurate reading anyway. If using a direct heat source it is logical to assume much heat would be lost with this method of heating and housing. The heat is out in the open and therefore not enclosed in a confined space so possibly diluted therefore reducing the ambient air temp. Also, the housing being used does not retain heat well and generally consists of a very well ventilated lid/container (yes, the snakes environment should be well ventilated). Although heat mats work by infra red heatwaves on par with the way the sun heats objects. As mentioned in the other thread where the snakes viv. is located can have a bearing on the snakes environment. It can be difficult to maintain a decent heat if the room is cold and the housing doesn’t retain heat etc. Do consider a purpose vivarium, it is a worthwhile investment and can even be built yourself. Personally I don’t think the faunarium will be sufficient for very long, although can be a good start (maybe cover one of the sides while it is out in the open). While it is however, you can place it inside the viv. half on half off the heatmat. You have mentioned trying substrate but no mention of providing a hide, this is most important especially in such an exposed environment. Too much space can be detrimental to snakes, all clear sides gives the feeling of being totally exposed in the wider environment. Good luck and enjoy.