Quote:
Originally Posted by dannybgoode
Ooo don't get me and TRD started on the whole uvb for snakes  .
Have a search on the forum for some lengthy mass debates on the subject. In a very short summary there is a ton of research to show that uvb is highly beneficial for snakes and I provide it for all mine.
No it's not essential for them to live in the way it is for a lot of lizards but it is desirable imo to give the option. |
Yes, I understand a lot of people use UVB for snakes, it's not necessary though. Certainly it can only help them. There are proven studies showing how UVB can increase color, improve mood, and it is a natural way snakes get d3 should they decide to bask. I have absolutely no problem with people who use UVB, I think it is a great replication of what the snakes would expierence. All I am saying is there have been numerous documented cases of snakes not being given UVB lighting, and living perfectly happy lives. For certain species of snakes I would actually suggest UVB lighting to highten colors, such as Epicrates cenchria, Morelia amethistina, and Epicrates maurus who are all especially well known for their rainbow coloration under this kind of lighting. UVB lighting can certainly get expensive, especially because of how often they need to be replaced. The majority of snakes should be able to get their d3 from the diet they eat however, and there are many snakes that often don't bask at all and never come out to expierence much UVB even in the wild. In terms of lizards, UVB is much more important, especially in herbivores herps such as Iguanas. But you're right UVB is probably one of the most debated aspects of keeping reptiles, and we could probably go on about it indefinitely, so I'll end it off on this: UVB is not necessary, but it will not hurt the snake (could actually help it), should you chose to provide it. Moneek: If you do want to provide it, I recommend using nomoypet's reptile uvb bulb for 10.0. It is cheaper than anything else I have come across and works perfectly for my ackie monitor. dannybgoode: if you can check out my care sheet on ackie monitors, I would truly appreciate it, I would love for some constructive criticism so I can improve upon it.
Thank you,
-DJC Reptiles
Hybrid Mode
