The Importance of UV Light for Bearded Dragons

Bearded dragons are great pets for beginners due to their docility and easy maintenance. They require a warm and dry environment, and as desert dwellers, they require exposure to UV lighting for approximately 12 hours a day. UV light is important for the synthesis of Vitamin D3, which helps them absorb calcium from their food. Calcium is essential for strong bones, and a lack of it will lead to metabolic bone disease and other health issues.

The Different Types of UV Lights

There are various types of UV lighting available on the market, and it’s important to know that not all of them are suitable for bearded dragons. Here are the most common ones:

Mercury Vapor Bulbs

Mercury vapor bulbs are often recommended for bearded dragons, as they provide both heat and UV lighting in one bulb. They emit high levels of heat and UVB radiation, and are great for bearded dragons that require a lot of basking. However, they can be quite pricey and may not be suitable for bearded dragons housed in smaller enclosures.

Compact Fluorescent Bulbs

Compact fluorescent bulbs are a great option for smaller enclosures, as they emit both UVB and UVA radiation. They’re also energy-efficient and last longer than mercury vapor bulbs. However, they may not provide enough heat for bearded dragons that require a lot of basking.

Tube UVB Bulbs

Tube UVB bulbs are a popular choice for bearded dragon owners. They emit UVB radiation over a larger surface area and can be used for larger enclosures. However, they may not provide enough heat and may require the use of additional heating equipment.

Do Bearded Dragons Need UV Light at Night?

Bearded dragons are diurnal animals, which means they’re active during the day and sleep at night. They don’t require UV lighting at night, and in fact, it can disrupt their natural sleep cycle. Exposing bearded dragons to UV lighting at night can also cause stress and health problems, such as eye damage and skin burns.

How to Provide UV Light for Bearded Dragons

Bearded dragons require exposure to UV lighting for approximately 12 hours a day. Here are some tips on how to provide UV lighting for your bearded dragon:

Choose the Right Bulb

Choose a bulb that’s suitable for your bearded dragon’s enclosure size and basking needs. Consider using a combination of UVB and UVA bulbs, or a mercury vapor bulb that emits both heat and UV.

Position the Bulb Correctly

Position the bulb in a way that provides a basking area and a cooler area. The basking area should be around 95-110°F (35-43°C), and the cooler area should be around 75-85°F (24-29°C). Make sure the bulb is positioned at the right distance from the basking area, as too close or too far can affect the amount of heat and UV radiation emitted.

Provide a Photoperiod

Provide a photoperiod that mimics the natural daylight cycle. This means providing 12 hours of UV lighting and 12 hours of darkness. Use a timer to ensure consistency.

Conclusion

Bearded dragons require UV lighting for their overall health and wellbeing. It’s important to choose the right bulb and position it correctly, and to provide a photoperiod that mimics their natural daylight cycle. Remember that bearded dragons don’t require UV lighting at night, and in fact, it can disrupt their natural sleep cycle.