Corn snakes need a temperature gradient so they can move between warmer and cooler areas. A useful general target is a warm area in the mid-to-upper 80s°F with a cooler side in the 70s°F.
Should the whole enclosure be warm?
No. A temperature gradient is important for normal thermoregulation. Measure both the warm and cool areas with reliable digital thermometers.
Do I need a thermostat?
Yes. Any primary heat source that can overheat the enclosure should be controlled with an appropriate thermostat. A thermometer is still needed to verify actual enclosure temperatures.
Does my corn snake need heat at night?
Whether supplemental nighttime heat is necessary depends on how cool the enclosure becomes. If additional heat is needed, use an appropriate lightless heat source rather than leaving bright daytime lights on all night.
Browse Snake Supplies for heating and temperature-control equipment.