ball python and humidity

Question
We have a baby ball, just went thru his first shed with us and was incomplete.  We had been using aspen shavings for substrate, pet store recommended "forrest floor" for substrate, saying the snake needed more moisure for better shed.  After only 1 day, we found the inside of the hide was actually wet with moisture, and the substrate in the hide was quite damp (we use undertank heater, and its placed under the hide area).  Is this too much moisture for the ball python?  If yes, what type of substrate would you recommend?  Thank you.

Answer
Hello Liz,

You should have left the Aspen substrate. It is what I use and have had no problems with it. It actually help keep the moisture at a good level. With a forest substrate the moisture level is way to high unless you have plants and some sort of ground covering like moss ect. Most pet stores do not have very knowledgeable employees. If you have any questions you are best to search online, you will find everything you need to know.

To answer your question about the shed. There are going to be times when you will have incomplete sheds. To help with this problem you should cover part of the top with a piece of plastic with a few holes drilled. You should also mist in the cage at least every other day, but don't over due it. Just a short little shower with a spray bottle. There cages out there that are really great and help keep the moisture in them. One I love is vision cages. They have locks and a place to put your light. The best cage is 12" X 28" X 24". They are a little costlier than your plan glass tank but are well worth the money.

I hope this has helped you Liz, let me know if you have any other questions.

Eric Rovegno
www.ballpythonplanet.com