Over the years, I can't even begin to tell you how many times I've looked at people's cage photos and cringed at the dimensions and overall layout. Granted, some of these are beautiful masterpieces showing great craftsmanship and no expenses spared...and usually, it's mostly to do with the species. Perhaps another species would be better suited for some of these cages. Here's what bugs me the most. Tall cages for animals that spend most of the time on the ground with overhead heating. Overhead heating cones out and leaves a much wider footprint of heat on the floor compared to where the heat originates from. The further the distance from light to floor, the more evenly distributed the heat is. However, these make great arboreal cages. Not so much because a snake in a cage really cares if it's 2 feet off the ground or 6...as long as they can perch, every species I have ever worked with seems to be quite content regardless of the actual height...In other words, is the cage sitting on the floor or high up on a table? They don't seem to care. Arrange perches so that you get a good gradient ideal for the species on the perches and adjust wattage, thermostat or dimmer as needed.
Some ground dwelling snakes like to climb too. This still does not mean you should build a 6 foot tall cage. They are kind of clumsy at times and the lower the branches you put in for climbing, the less distance they have to fall. Plus...No matter what they like or you think they like, it is paramount that they have a proper ground level gradient. Here's a little photo I drew in photoshop to illustrate a couple of examples. I haven't mentioned any actual species nor have I given any actual dimensions. It's up to you to know your animal's exact needs. So I left a lot open here for you to use your own noodle. The main thing I wanted to show was how the heat from overhead fixtures cones out and with that, you should be able to apply this to your own setups or fix any problems you may be experiencing. If I'm condescending or belittling because this is all too basic, I am sorry and maybe this isn't directed at you. But...There are a LOT of poorly put together setups. Hope this helps somebody.
