What Reptile Lighting Needs : Reptiles and amphibians are quickly becoming the largest non-dog and feline pet group in the United States. We are often asked about this lighting for pets and it seems like a lot of people really don’t know what lighting needs for their pets are.
Metabolic Bone Disease and stress are the two leading causes of ill health and, ultimately, death in pet reptiles and amphibians. Both may be caused by inadequate lighting from the pet’s house. There are many different types of lighting and it is important to research the needs of the species you are keeping. The terms that will be discussed here include photoperiod, heat, UVA rays and UVB rays.
Different species of reptiles and amphibians have different periods of activity during the day. Some are active during the day (diurnal), some are active at night (nocturnal) and some are active at dawn and dusk (crepuscular). It is usually unwise to mix this group in one cage unless sophisticated lighting arrangements can be made. . maintained. All reptiles need a proper photoperiod or day and night cycle to stimulate their normal activity patterns.
Animals that do not have the proper photoperiod become stressed and most often deteriorate to poor health and eventually die. There are special lamps in the pet market to provide light day or night. The nocturnal red light not only helps the reptile in promoting normal activity, but also allows the owner to easily observe its activity.
Reptiles and amphibians are known as ectotherms, animals that must move in and out of heat to maintain their body temperature. Lighting can be the main source of heat in a terrarium. Pet reptiles need a temperature gradient to provide a higher heat source and a place to escape the heat when they … Read more
