I don't think that an 8 year old uro should be considered

old. At this age they are most likely approaching the middle

life part of their life span. Ofcourse proper husbandry plays

a large part in long lived uros as it does in most reptiles.



The failing eyesight you mentioned could be a health, DNA

or genetic issue. Maybe just due simple by the lack of

certain proteins/vitamins in their daily diet like beta carotene

to mention one.



Some herpetologists might challenged the constant exposure

of artificial lighting when captive housed through their entire

lives with often few hides for them to seek non lit areas of

their terrariums. I don't believe that these uros will bask for a

10 or 12 hour period while in the wild. They may bask in

order to warm up for a morning hunt for their favorite plant

life and often this is interrupted by clouds or even by various

predators seeking a scaly morsel.



I've attached a photo of one of my oldest uros "Tony"

(the tiger). He is a great looking 16 year old tiger stripped

mali which I purchased back in the mid 90s as a young

adult. I first housed him indoors for a couple of years.

He's been outdoors for the past 10 years (at least) and is

in better than decent health ... considering his age. I'm a

great believer in natural sunlight for my reptiles and do

house most of my collection/breeders outdoors with

great success. Many of my uros are entering their silver

years and some (as Tony) their golden years with little

to no issues to speak of.



Just my two cents worth,

John

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