Infrared thermometer?

[ofafeather]

Since the search function isn’t currently working I’m not sure if this is already posted one where. Should we is an infrared thermometer to take temps for our soon-to-be-adopted sulcata (15y/o we think)? Will that only measure surface temp and do we need something else for ambient temp? Any recommendations brand/type?

She will be here Saturday or Sunday so we’re trying to be as prepared as we can.

Thanks!

 

[Alex and the Redfoot]

Hello!
Infrared thermometer is for the surface temperatures only, but very helpful for checking shell temperature and all the spots around the enclosure.
You need a digital thermometer/hygrometer to monitor ambient temperatures and humidity. Many use Accu-Rite or other devices from a hardware store. Those with external probes are a bit more handy (easier to adjust measurement point). I have opted for "smart" sensors to have a history of measurements through the whole day and push notifications if something's off (like Govee or much more expensive SensorPush). I have two from TP-Link for the cold/warm zones.

 

[ofafeather]

Thanks! Picked up a temp gun on Amazon that I’ve put to good use so far!