There is some recent advances/research to show that snakes may actually absorb/synthesize some sunlight and to what amount is important for calcium absorption/Vit D3 synthesis, we are still unsure. And, I am fairly confident this can be met easily with a vitamin supplement. But, I can say that full spectrum lighting is used for most of my exhibit herps (including burms, boas, rattlesnakes, etc.) and they take full advantage of it. Good luck on your decision. Rob





>>Hi Rob,

>>

>>I'm just exploring other options, as it seems to me that I have not been having the same good experience with the radiant heat panels that others have. I plan on calling the manufacturer tomorrow to talk with him to try to figure out whether I am doing something wrong, missing something, or if the panel I have may actually not be working correctly. I'm still undecided at this point.

>>

>>I'm surprised about the response you've seen to full spectrum lighting. As far as I've known, burms, and most all snakes, don't require full spectrum lighting. I do have his lights on a timer so that he gets twelve hour days. And I have to say, I definitely don't have any problem with him being active or alert, as he seems to up and about quite often. The only time he seems to be settled and resting for any extended period of time is after he has eaten (but then, that's when I like to rest too!).

>>

>>I should have more info on my situation with my heat panels by tomorrow afternoon.

>>

>>Thanks for the info (I'll still consider the lighting option),

>>- Mark

>>.

>>

>>>>Just curious as to why you are not going with heat panels....based on your description, you seem to making it more difficult than need be. But, you recirculation idea does sound pretty neat if you can pull it off. Just as an aside, I would recommend the inclusion of full spectrum lighting for your burms...since including that into our cage plans, we have seen tremendous increase in overall alertness, activity levels, feeding responses, and general inquisitiveness in their habitat; just something to consider.
-----
Rob Carmichael, Curator

The Wildlife Discovery Center at Elawa Farm

Lake Forest, IL

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