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Does My Reptile Need that Expensive UV light
Candace Hersey-Benner, DVM
Roaring Brook Veterinary Hospital, Canton, CT
In short, yes. Most reptile species including lizards (iguanas and bearded dragons), turtles, and tortoises do need daily exposure to UV rays. Snakes, nocturnal lizards, and most amphibian species do not need a UV light because they have evolved with the ability to obtain vitamin D3 from the prey they eat. If not supplied with a proper source of UV light, over time captive reptiles may develop metabolic bone disease.
UV light, especially UV-B, promotes the synthesis of vitamin D3 in the skin, which is required for the body to process calcium. If optimum calcium levels are not present in the blood and tissues, then calcium is taken from bone. Bone without adequate levels of calcium becomes soft and is prone to fractures and bowing. The skeletal system is not the only body system affected by low levels of calcium in the blood. Calcium is also needed for muscle contraction, blood clotting, and other metabolic functions.
In climates where reptiles can be housed outside, supplementation with a separate source of UV light is not needed. New England climates are too harsh for this, so purchasing a heat lamp (incandescent or full spectrum light source) in addition to a UV-B light is imperative to ensure a long healthy life for your reptile. A common misconception is that full spectrum lights are the same as UV lights. "Full spectrum" or incandescent lights are only used for producing heat. They do not produce any UV-B rays. Don’t be fooled by packaging which has this statement. Be conscientious consumers and only buy a light that clearly states that the bulb emits UV-B. Also be wary of pet stores which claim that all reptile lights are the same. Your local experienced veterinarian should be able to guide you in choosing the correct light.
Glass and plastic filter out the beneficial UV rays, so housing your reptile by a window will not provide him/her with any UV light. Even an aluminum screen, a common feature of many enclosures, filters out 30 % of the beneficial UV rays. Remember to place the light between 12-18 inches from the basking area and provide an average of 8-12 hours of exposure per day.
Over a period of time, the amount of UV-B emitted by the bulbs will decrease to the point where it will fail to provide sufficient UV-B required for vitamin D3 formation. It is recommended to change bulbs once every 6-12 months since there is insufficient data to show how long bulbs will continue to produce sufficient levels of ultraviolet wavelengths. UV lights are more expensive than incandescent bulbs, but the long term savings ensuring that your reptile remains healthy are well worth the investment.
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