Many snakes will not feed without the privacy of some degree of visual security. Silk plants are visually pleasing and easy to clean and disinfect. They require minimal maintenance, help to increase the humidity level if the foliage is frequently misted, and can complement a snake's ability to camouflage itself, thereby providing visual security. Exposed heat sources must be shielded to protect snakes from serious burns as they attempt to warm themselves by coiling next to them. Small snakes should be offered a hot rock.
Large snakes can use one or more well protected and waterproof heating pads.
These allow the snake direct, but safe, contact with the heat source. This raises their body temperature and increases activity and rate of digestion. The heat sources should be checked frequently for malfunction. Your snake should also be checked periodically for evidence of burns because they generally do not move away from a heat-generating source even if they are severely burned. Lighting Ideally, captive reptiles should be housed in such a way that they can be exposed to and benefit from direct, unfiltered sunlight during the day.