Tortoise heat lamps and lights are necessary to keep your pet tortoise happy and healthy. Naturally, it's important to select the right type, because these pets depend on basking time for body temperature regulation and even digestion! There are a number of benefits to ensuring the right tortoise heat lamps and lights for your pet, some of which include:
Browse Chewy's variety of tortoise heat lamps and lights today! Consider using Autoship to schedule regular replacement of UV bulbs every six to 12 months, as the invisible UV light loses strength over time. Consult your reptile vet with any questions or concerns.
Tortoise heat lamps and lights are beneficial because they help our little friends regulate body temperature as well as digest food. It's important to set up a heat lamp for your tortoise in a specific part of their tank environment so they don't overheat. Consult your vet with questions or concerns.
No, you do not leave tortoise heat lamps and lights on all night, because nighttime is when they cool down. You would, however, leave a UVA/UVB heat lamp on during the day in an area of your tank to help your tortoise regulate their body temperature. Leaving one on during the night could disrupt their circadian rhythm and disturb other biological processes.
Generally speaking, your heat lamp should be spaced about 10–12 inches from your tortoise's shell when it's on during the day. This height allows your pet to attain a basking temperature range of about 90–100 degrees Fahrenheit; this can vary by species. Monitor with a thermometer. This distance can be adjusted depending on the wattage of your bulb and the tank setup.
When it comes to the best types of tortoise heat lamps and lights, several types may work for your setup- mercury-vapor, fluorescent, LED. Most bulbs or ceramic heat emitters labeled for basking would be a good choice, but consult your reptile vet regarding the specific needs of your tortoise. Basking time helps regulate body temperature and improve digestion.
In terms of bulb wattage for your tortoise, many aim for one in the range of 75–100 watts for basking, in addition to a UV bulb. The wattage can depend on the size of your tortoise tank, with larger tanks needing more watts. Consult with your vet about your pet's needs, as bulbs that produce heat and basking lights that are too hot can cause health issues. Always monitor the tank temperature where your tortoise spends their time, and ensure there's a temperature gradient in the tank that provides both a warmer and a cooler area.
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