I've also done my own testing and live in New Jersey. I agree that very high basking temps. exist in Australia and New Jersey. I have measured them with my temp. gun.



My point is that outside the animals do not need to bask for as long because of the UVB output of the sun. Dragons in the wild generally bask in the morning and afternoon and then find shade during the hottest part of the day. This has tested out on hot days in my outdoor enclosure. In other words, given the choice they don't bask for long in high temp. basking spots.



What we should be discussing is what the ideal body temperature of a Bearded Dragon is. That temp. is only about 95-100. As long as they are able to accomplish that, and their other needs are met they should be healthy. A raised basking light should get them closer to the UVB source also which unfortunately is severely lacking compared to direct sunlight. Therefore, longer basking times are required inside than outside. Something to consider.



I've always recommended higher basking temps. (115) for babies and juveniles.



I have 22 Beardies here and am a meticulous keeper. I take in rescues and do reptile rehabilitation for a reptile vet. I have experimented with different conditions and have found the best basking spot range for adults to be 105-110. Seriously, ill dragons have recovered in that range and were returned to their amazed owners.



I accept that Robyn's experience and observations differ from mine. My suggestion is for people to split the difference and make their own decisions based on their observations of their particular dragon. Then decide if they want to move the temps. up or down. All my animals are different, some like higher temps. than others and I adjust for that based on their behavior.

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