The second photo seems to show a small spur on the rear leg. He'll grow very rapidly. You'll be able to confirm in no time. Either way they are fantastic. You'll just need a laying bin if you have a female, which I don't think you do.
I have these brackets. They are good, but they only go a very short distance toward the middle. You'll need to also mount it in the corner as the adhesive will not work with the screen part. It works okay though. I have a metal halide fixture which is cool enough to keep directly on the screen...
After looking at your photos, I would say he's got enough foliage to feel comfortable in there. 2-3" should be plenty. You can mount it form a ceiling as you suggested or you can use one of the commercially available mounting brackets. Check the temps with an infrared thermometer to determine if...
Take a picture of his rear legs. Yes, the casque looks on the smaller side. The rear legs will give you 100% confirmation. If there are spurs, it's a male. If not, it's a female. Pretty simple.
Is just a plain tray that fits my cage okay to put at the bottom? Nothing else? Yes, some people use paper towels and others create a bioactive setup. Having nothing on the bottom will make cleaning it very easy.
He’s been climbing on the ceiling of the cage and I’m so afraid he’s going to burn...
Got'ya. I thought it was more about safety and the two functions not interfering. The logic in what you stated is rock solid. I am now reading a lot about the natural climate of the Vailed. It's fascinating stuff.
If you need to turn off the basking light to mist, then the setup you have is incorrect. There should be no need to turn off the basking light. It’s not going to hurt anything if you do, but misting should not interfere with lighting for a number of good reasons.
It honestly sounds like a hunger strike. I am assuming he's eating the prescription food your vet gave him. It's possible he's holding out for what he wants. I would recommend you try a variety of different feeders. Is there one he particularly likes? Try different things. See if he starts...
I would absolutely invest in a misting system before anything else outside of the basics you've already covered. You'll never worry again about whether or not he's getting enough to drink. It's a must, in my opinion.
When I say the info is outdated, I am only referring to the info about metal halide, which states that it's only effective at high wattage and only recommended for "very large" enclosures. That is simply incorrect on both counts. That was the case many years go with the metal halide products...
No offense taken. :)
I would recommend you re-read what I wrote. I thought I made the recommendation for sticking with the tried and true method. It's the best place to start. If the objective of this hobby to deliver the best care to our animals, then I think it's a good idea to learn as much...
You are off to a good. It's clear you've done your homework and honestly that is the best way to ensure success. As for the questions.
Outside branches are fine. Put them in the oven at 350 degrees for a little while to bake to kill off any unwelcome hitchhikers
Heat is something you'll need...