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UV light vs. basking light

jessica51202 Jun 20, 2003 02:13 PM

Right now I'm using a UV light as a source of heating the tank....my question is...are UV lights bad for the leo, or should I go out and buy a basking light? Thanks in advance!!

Jessica

Replies (3)

bmills Jun 20, 2003 02:22 PM

I have not heard that UV lights are bad for the leos, but I do know that they do not need a UV light because they are nocturnal. I have never heard they are bad for them though, maybe somebody else can shed a little more light.
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ZeR0 Jun 20, 2003 02:58 PM

In a way they ARE bad, leos dont like bright lights, as they are nocturnal, and in rare cases can lead to blind or semi blind leos. They dont need UV at all, and UV bulbs dont even heat the cage. What I DO recomend is not a basking lamp, but a Under tank heater for reptiles. These are not hard to find at all, just take a look at your local petstore and you should be able to find one. Theyre usually pretty cheap IMO, around 20 bucks for a 5 x 8 one. Hope this helps,
Mac

WingedWolfPsion Jun 21, 2003 04:04 PM

A UVB flourescent, or a UVA reptile basking bulb?

If it's the flourescent, these are not an efficient way to heat a tank. If it's the UVA basking bulb, it should be just fine, might even be beneficial. I wouldn't recommend using it with any of the albino color morphs, however. The eyes of albinos are highly sensitive to light. Just be sure the leos have a good hide where they can get out of the light to sleep. The UVA might even help them get better rest during the day, as it's a more natural looking light.

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