Homeowner's Guide to Lighting for bearded dragons It is extremely important that you provide your Beardie with good lighting. Without it, he will suffer many health problems. Bearded dragons require UVA and UVB.
Without UVB, your dragon will not be able to manufacture its own vitamin D3. This prevents it from digesting calcium which eventually lead to metabolic bone disease. There are several options you have when you are looking for a source of UVB.
Some sources UVB does not generate heat, so you need to buy a heat lamp to compensate for it. If you want something that produces heat and UVB rays, you should consider the purchase of mercury vapor bulbs. They are more expensive, but you will not have to buy a lamp for extra warmth.
Whatever your choice, you should know that you need to replace the light at the end of six months. The source will always continue to shine the light. However, the production of UVB will be greatly diminished after about six months. It is also important that you place the light does not exceed 12 inches from your dragon crack.
No UVB source on the planet is as good as natural light. So you should try to take your bearded dragon outside whenever you have the chance. Make sure the temperature is above 70 degrees Fahrenheit before removing. If you have an outdoor pen for him, always provide a hiding place and a little shade.
Many owners set their dragon enclosure next to a window so it gets some sunlight. You should be aware that this is not effective. The window glass will either reflect or filter out UVB rays, before they even reach your Beardie. If the vivarium is made of glass, it will also prevent the sun's UVB rays from reaching him.
Although you will need a general light source, you'll also need a lid on the terrarium to keep your dragon escape. Make sure the lid is not glass or plastic, because it will not UVB. It is best to get a screen cover. Avoid fine mesh screens, it will be too UV filter. Look for a cover that has larger openings.
Posted on July 5, 2011.
