I have done extensive research into Heating of T's. And will never claim to be an expert in the field, but here is my findinds...again...
Link to a previous thread about this topic
Heating Mats (When & Where)
and I will also extensively "rant" on the topic.
On original enquiries into this topic and where to place the heating pad I was advised not use heating pads and as always I followed a somewhat idiotic policy of my own... "If you don't know... ask for some advice, do some research, and try all the different scenario's and form a theory of your own." I will only do this if I am sure that my experiment will not be detrimental to the animal, as I don't only keep T's, but keep or have kept a very wide range of exotics, but specialise in reptiles( and this was the reason why I wanted to experiment with Heating on T's)
My Findings:
Most T's will dig a hole to escape extreme heat, (as was advised).
The first mistake( As I did for the purpose of my research) most inexperienced T keepers in SA will make due to their experience with reptiles will be to stick a heating pad under their T's enclosure as they will do with most of their other pets. Unfortunately the T will then dig closer to the source of the heat and stand the risk of over heating due to their natural instinct and DYING!!
There is also other conditions to consider with the movement of air that I will mention later in this.
Sticking the heating pad on top of the enclosure will defy the purpose of heating with a heating pad a heat raise up and cold air will the fill your enclosure.
Sticking it on the side makes the best sense then and some keepers will swear by this, but it will still put you at risk of overheating the T or causing cold air to settle inside your T's enclosure instead of getting the desired heating effect.
I have moved my T's to a position where they get a fair a mount of morning sun light, even in winter and have not intentionally heated them in any way and have not had any problems thus far.
Check out the following link
Air Movement
Considering only the negative effects like... "the introduction into the building of dust, pollen, mold spores, radon or other pollutants or health hazards", etc. that moving hot air might have then you DO NOT want this happening inside your T's enclosure.
But please note that these findings have only been on an Inexperienced Tarantula Keeper level in SA... and that I have not tried breeding any T's. Thus far my finding have been on par to the advice I have received from reputed members and that is the reason for the post...
If for some or other reason(personal or other...) you disagree with experienced members... Don't!!! This forum has some of the best experienced T keepers in the trade in SA. And the value of their info and those of experienced keepers internationally like RobC and Uncle Stan is invaluable and should be taken...
