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Cazador · 11-08-2006, 08:48 PM

Hey Matt,
I think what ssssnakeluvr is saying is that you don't want obvious moisture in your substrate. Don't worry about the atmospheric humidity (relative humidity; RH) unless it gets too high or too low. If the RH is too high, it can lead to blister disease, fungal growth, and bacterial blooms. If it is too low, it can cause shedding problems.

As I recall, you have an Eastern garter, so about 55-60% RH is probably about the upper end that you want to have. There isn't a whole lot you can do, other than get a smaller water bowl or move your water bowl from underneath the heat light (or off of your heat pad). You can also replace moisture-absorbant substrate (shredded aspen) with less absorbant substrate (bark, paper towels). To increase the RH, you can either mist your substrate, get a larger water bowl, or move your water bowl under/over your heat source. Any other tips for Matt?
Rick

P.S. Other species/subspecies, like the Florida blues, can tolerate higher humidity, but those from more arid regions need even less.

11-08-2006, 08:48 PM	#11 (permalink)
Cazador Moderator Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Alaska, USA Posts: 1,609 Country:	Re: Proper care?? Hey Matt, I think what ssssnakeluvr is saying is that you don't want obvious moisture in your substrate. Don't worry about the atmospheric humidity (relative humidity; RH) unless it gets too high or too low. If the RH is too high, it can lead to blister disease, fungal growth, and bacterial blooms. If it is too low, it can cause shedding problems. As I recall, you have an Eastern garter, so about 55-60% RH is probably about the upper end that you want to have. There isn't a whole lot you can do, other than get a smaller water bowl or move your water bowl from underneath the heat light (or off of your heat pad). You can also replace moisture-absorbant substrate (shredded aspen) with less absorbant substrate (bark, paper towels). To increase the RH, you can either mist your substrate, get a larger water bowl, or move your water bowl under/over your heat source. Any other tips for Matt? Rick P.S. Other species/subspecies, like the Florida blues, can tolerate higher humidity, but those from more arid regions need even less.