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what kind of thermometer do I get to monitor the basking are temp? Do i just stick it on the platform?

i like the digital ones with a probe that can be moved around to check temps in different places. The probe just hangs via a suction cup, and can be placed almost anywhere. Here's the one I use.
http://www.bigalsonline.com/BigAlsUS/ct ... terrariums

You could use the glass type aquarium thermometers, but the digital ones are better. Something like this works for me:
http://www.bigalsonline.com/BigAlsUS/ct ... hermometer
Most pet stores have them, they are cheap and accurate....

I never had success reading the basking temps with the glass thermometers. Though, with the digital..i have I also agree, digital is the way to go..