Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi everyone! The rescued veiled chameleon is doing very well. He's just finished a full body shed and has begun eating again. He really loves wax and silkworms, I can't seem to get him to eat crickets or small roaches though.

My question is about the new cage I just ordered him from www.reptilehavenonline.com. They have the best selection I have seen and not to mention the best prices. I ordered him the largest metal screen cage they carried, it's 48" x 24"x 24". I've done plenty of UVB research and know that 75 - 90% of UVB rays are blocked out by screens. Should I mount his mercury vapor UVB bulb inside the cage? I just don't want him to get burned or come into contact with the heat source. I could arrange the cage so that none of the vines or plants come near the bulb, but he could always climb on the screen. Any thoughts or suggestions on this?

Hugs,
Veronica
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Beautiful Dragons

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Signature file edited; [phw 8/31/04]

I would not put a MV light in the cage. You are right, a cham usually finds a way to get too close at some point. Remember, when they want warmth they get close to heat, but can't tell when they are TOO close, and get burned. Also, bulbs can explode if they get sprayed. I wouldn't want bulbs like this any where near moisture.

I think most of us have metal screen cage tops with our UVB lights on top. Yes, screen blocks some of the UV, but if the cham has exposure for at least 12 hours every day it is getting a fairly constant amount over time. This is probably more important than the intensity of the UV itself. I think of all the chams I've had in cages set up like this. I've never had a case of MBD. When the weather is right it's always a good idea to give the cham time outdoors to bask. The lighting is more of an insurance and gap-filler, along with good nutrition.

Thanks so much! Yeah, I had doubts, but I have seen set ups with the bulbs inside before, so I wasn't sure. Thanks for clarifying it for me.

Hugs,
Veronica
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Beautiful Dragons

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Signature file edited; [phw 8/31/04]