I am saying MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ME and a very happy new year as on Dec 28th I will be picking up a Checkered Garter Snake from Chris / Spankenstyne. I'm SO excited *Insert Music Notes* and I just can't hide it! I know I know... lol And I have a big clear plastic tank to set up. I will be putting him in with my little Radix for a little while as they are still too young to breed, but alas they will be monitored for any funny business or inappropriate affections lol

My question is... What kinda heating options do I have for a plastic tank? I would like a cheap build it yourself type deal. Was thinking about heat tape on slate rock? Or heat pad on slate rock / tile? I don't wanna melt the plastic... Any ideas? Would a normal lamp with say a 100w bulb work? I plan on customizing the lid with steel mesh window screen so as to allow air flow n light...

Any thoughts on heat rocks? or them Heat Cables? I also saw a 'Hermit crab heat pad' Which attaches to plastic but I couldn't find anything about how warm they get or anything.

Any help n advice is greatly appreciated.