Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have read some Japanese books about snake keeping , they wrote rough greens will active during day time and acually the need UVB for developing their bones and keeps their health . Therefore , I have asked some rough green keepers about this question , they answered me that UVB aor any UV lighting is not nessisary for most rough greens in captive . I am wonder about the 2 different answers . If you would possible tell me , should I place a UV light for my new bought rough greens ?

thanks .

Artifical UVB lighting are not necessary for any herp, provided you suppliment. Artifical lights do a poor job of simulating the UVB range, and most that do, require that the light be within 12inch of the animal and changed every six months. Natural unfiltered sunlight is 100% better.Supplimenting with Calcium that contains D3 also is proven to work. That being said, Rough Green snakes are basking snakes and will benifit from having full spectrum lighting, or perferably sunlight. In any case since they are insect eaters, and most people limit them to only a few types, you should be giving them a multivitamin as well as, a calcium D3 suppliment.

I've had my 2 RG snakes for just over a year. I use UVB. They hang out under it... basking.

I also use supplements on their food though. Obviously, one is not a substitute for the other.