I guess I am going to have to get used to this. U know, agreeing with people. I could not have said it any better, then the bearded keeper.

Excess UV is to be avoided, as with humans. A range of heat(not any single temp) allows them to achieve lifes functions. Brightness is one method how they decide what areas have useable heat.

For instance, they are attracted to the brightest areas, then stay or move away as needed. Once they achieve the heat they need(whatever that may be) They then move to more shadowed areas. As in Off lite or dark. They then gauge their temps and decide to either stay active, go down or move back to lite. With some species such as beardeds, they do not avoid open areas. Varanids only use open areas as a last resort.(why academics cannot find them)( they somehow confuse varanids with agamids, iguanids, etc) Varanids behave more like snakes. Staying in the shadows whenever possible. If they do use open areas, its very close to secure shelter. Of course giant monitors have nothing to fear, so they are more on the bold side.

That is a small example of a reptiles life, to choose temps on a minute by minute basis. And brightness of lite is ONE of many tools they use.

They have many tools to protect them from the damaging UV rays, like the skin you mentioned, and the semi-translucent eyelids many species have. Have you ever noticed in pictures of wild monitors, like any of the gouldi group or perenties, etc, they sit in the sun with their eyes half or more closed. A close look and you will see, they can still see through their upper eyelid.

So in most cases, I agree, those high dollar UV bulbs are not needed, not in the least. But then so are many of the other commerical products on the market.

If you check with long time breeders, the most common commerical products of benefit are, crickets and other insects, mice and other rodents, and suppliments such as calicum and vitamins. And cages, for those with no tools or that type of ability. Cheers

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