Bearded dragons are desert lizards and require direct exposure to UVB light in order to live healthy and happy lives. The short answer to the question if they can get UVB through a window is NO- you should never assume that windows are a safe enough supplemental source of UVB for a beardie.
The long-wave UVB radiation from the desert sun is usually filtered out by the glass, meaning that the beardie will not be able to receive the necessary UVB light through a window. Additionally, glass can also absorb or reflect UVB radiation, preventing it from reaching the beardie, plus windows are often situated in places that either block out the sun’s rays or get too much direct sunlight during hot summer days, which can be really dangerous for them.
It’s always best to provide your beardie with direct UVB access via the best UVB lamp for beardies – such as a Trango Arcadia Desert T5 HO lamp.
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Can UVB pass through glass for reptiles?
Yes, the short-wave UVB radiation from the sun can pass through glass. However, the intensity of the UVB radiation passing through the glass may be reduced. This is important for reptiles kept in enclosures with glass windows or glass tanks, as the UVB that passes through the glass may not be enough to keep them healthy.
UVB is essential for reptiles, as it helps them regulate hormones, produce vitamin D3, and synthesize calcium in their bodies. When purchasing glass aquariums or terrariums for your reptile pet, it is important to consider getting one with special UVB-transmitting glass or special reptile lighting fixtures that can supplement the UVB they receive from the sun.
Additionally, regular changes of the terrarium glass or reptile light bulbs should be done to ensure that your reptile pet is getting the proper amount of UVB.
Do windows block out UVB?
Windows block out some UVB, but not all. In general, most windows block out more than 50% of UVB radiation, including most common types of window glass, such as single-pane and double-pane windows. Window film also can be used to block out more UVB radiation.
The amount of UVB radiation blocked by window glass or window film varies due to factors such as the type of glass, the quality of the window frame, and the amount and type of window film. Generally, the more layers of window glass, the better the UVB protection, but this isn’t always the case.
Likewise, the more layers of window film added, the more UVB protection is provided; however, the amount of UVB protection provided depends on the type of window film used. Additionally, if a window is facing south, it will allow more UVB rays to pass through than if it is facing east or west.
Therefore, to ensure optimal UVB protection, it is best to install a combination of window glass and window film that is designed specifically to block the greatest amount of UVB radiation.
Can you leave UVB light on all night for bearded dragon?
No, you should not leave UVB light on all night for a bearded dragon. The UVB light is important for the bearded dragon to process calcium and other vital nutrients, however, having the lights on for too long can lead to issues such as stress and having too much exposure to UVB light can cause serious health issues.
Bearded dragons need day and night times to regulate their body clock correctly and be able to rest and digest. Generally speaking, the UVB light should be on during the day, 10-14 hours, and off at night.
It is also important to ensure that the light is not too close, as this can cause too much exposure. If possible, it is also recommended to use a timer to ensure the light goes on and off at the right times.
Finally, be sure to replace the UVB light every 6-12 months as the bulb will eventually wear out.
Where do you put UVB light in bearded dragon?
UVB light should always be placed above the bearded dragon, within 12-18” of their basking spot. You should use a low-wattage or a dome-style fixture that will allow the dragon to move around and bask without having to be in direct contact with the light.
Make sure that the light fixture is securely attached to a level surface, as dragons may try to climb up the light or play with it and it could result in injury if it is not properly mounted. Additionally, you should always use a bulb specifically designed for reptiles, as regular bulbs can lead to burns.
Finally, make sure to leave the UVB light on for 8-12 hours a day, to give your dragon the full spectrum of light they need to stay healthy.
How far away should UVB light be from bearded dragon?
The ideal distance for UVB light for bearded dragons is approximately 12″ to 18″ (30 cm to 45 cm). This distance should be carefully monitored, as an exposure distance that is either too close or too far away could present health risks.
Too much exposure to UVB light causes burns while overexposure can lead to metabolic bone disease, due to an imbalance in the calcium phosphorus ratio. Therefore, it is important to check on the bearded dragon’s basking area every few days to ensure the light is at the correct distance from the dragon.
If the reptile does not appear to be getting enough UVB light, the distance should be adjusted accordingly.
How long does a UV light need to be on for a bearded dragon?
A UV light should be on for 12-14 hours per day for a bearded dragon. It should be positioned close enough so the dragon can comfortably bask in UVB light, without being too close, as possible eye and skin damage can occur.
The light should be shut off 12 hours after it is first turned on. For example, if you turn the light on at 8:00 am, it should be off by 8:00 pm. If the bearded dragon is not within a comfortable distance from the UV light and cannot bask, then it may not get the necessary exposure, and health problems could arise.
How many hours a day does a bearded dragon need UVB light?
A bearded dragon should have 10 to 12 hours of UVB light exposure every day. This can be provided through a good quality full spectrum bulb. However, it’s important to note that UVB bulbs give off heat, so make sure the basking area is not too hot and that proper lighting is used.
Bearded dragons need proper UVA/UVB lighting to properly absorb calcium and Vitamin D3, which is essential for its growth and overall health. If a bearded dragon does not get enough UVB light it may become deficient in calcium, leading to health problems such as metabolic bone disease.
In addition, lack of UVB light can cause poor appetite, mouth rot, stunted growth, and other issues. Therefore, it is important to provide enough UVB light for your bearded dragon.
How far should my UVB light be?
The exact distance your UVB light should be from your reptile depends on the type of bulb you are using, as well as the species of your reptile. Generally speaking, a bulb should be placed in such a way that your reptile is able to bask directly under it, receiving the full intensity of the bulb’s rays.
For tube bulbs like the ReptiSun, this means positioning the bulb approximately 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) away from your reptile. Floodlights, on the other hand, should be positioned roughly 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) away.
Keep in mind that the amount of UVB your reptile is receiving will decrease with distance, so it’s important to ensure that the correct distance is achieved in order to best meet your reptile’s needs.
Additionally, if using a tube bulb, make sure to evaluate your bulb’s output every six months and replace it when necessary.
How far should basking spot be from lamp?
The exact distance for the basking spot from the lamp will depend on the type of bulb used. Generally speaking, the basking spot should be far enough from the lamp so that the surface temperature of the basking spot does not exceed 105°F.
It is important to place a thermometer in the basking area to monitor the temperature. You should start with the lamp about 12-18 inches away from the basking spot and adjust the distance according to the temperature you are seeing.
If the temperature is too low, move the lamp a bit closer and if it’s too high, move it farther away. It’s also advisable to have a hood over the bulb to help prevent skin burns, as well as diffuse the light and provide even heating.
How do I know if my bearded dragon is warm enough?
To check if your bearded dragon is warm enough, you should ensure the temperature in the basking spot is between 95 and 110 degrees Fahrenheit (35-43 degrees Celsius). You can use a digital thermometer or a temperature gun to measure the temperature of the basking spot to make sure it is within the correct range.
Additionally, if your bearded dragon appears to be too cold, it may curl up in a tight ball and hang from the branches of its enclosure. If it appears too hot, it may spread out and flatten against the floor of its enclosure.
If the look and behavior of your bearded dragon indicate that it is too cold or hot, you should adjust the temperature of the basking spot accordingly. Furthermore, if you become concerned about the temperature of your bearded dragon’s enclosure it is best to seek guidance from your local exotic veterinarian.
How do you set up a basking area for a bearded dragon?
Setting up a proper basking area for a bearded dragon is an important part of ensuring their health and happiness. First, you’ll want to make sure that you have the proper equipment and supplies. You’ll need an appropriate-sized enclosure, a thermometer and thermometer probe to track temperature, a basking light such as an incandescent bulb or ceramic heating element, a substrate such as green tiles, newspaper, or reptile carpet, a good-quality UVB light, and some decorations for mental stimulation.
Once you have all of your supplies, it’s time to set up the enclosure. You’ll want to start by setting up the substrate, decorations, and basking light. Make sure to place the basking light somewhere that the bearded dragon can easily reach it, and choose a spot that will help them maintain their preferred temperature.
You’ll also want to make sure that the UVB light is placed in an appropriate spot in the enclosure, such as near the top and away from the basking light.
Once everything is set up, you’ll then want to take a few temperature readings with your thermometer. Ideally, you should be looking for a basking spot temperature of 95-105°F (35-40°C) and an ambient temperature of 75-85°F (24-29°C).
Make sure to adjust the basking light and other elements if necessary to hit these temperatures.
Once everything is in place, your bearded dragon can start to enjoy their basking area. Make sure to monitor the temperature regularly and adjust as necessary to make sure that your reptile is comfortable and happy.
How much UVB does a bearded dragon need in a 40 gallon tank?
A bearded dragon should have access to between 2% and 5% UVB in a 40 gallon tank. This can be found in either a UVB fluorescent bulb or Mercury Vapor bulb, depending on the size of the tank. Additionally, the bulb should be placed between 10 and 16 inches above the top of the tank in order to properly reach the lizard.
A basking spot should also be provided to allow the lizard to bask and absorb the UVB. Additionally, the bulb should be replaced every 6–12 months depending on its quality and how often it is used. Finally, it is important to monitor the lizards behavior and health to ensure that they are receiving the proper UVB levels.
How close should my bearded dragon be to his heat lamp?
Your bearded dragon should be close enough to the heat lamp so that the ambient temperature of its vivarium stays between 90-110˚F (32-43˚C). Bearded dragons are most comfortable in temperatures around 100˚F (38˚C).
If the temperature gets too cold, your pet may experience stress or become unhealthy. When placing the heat lamp, it is important to keep an appropriate distance. Too close and the dragon may risk suffering from potential burns and too far away and the vivarium may not stay warm enough.
To get the right amount of heat, start by placing the lamp approximately 8-12 inches away from your bearded dragon’s basking spot. If you have a digital thermometer, you can use it to measure the temperature and make sure the dragon is not too close or too far away from the lamp.
Additionally, you can try using a ceramic bulb in an adjustable clamp lamp. This is often more convenient than suspending the heat lamp over the habitat. That being said, it is important to maintain a consistent temperature and also provide a temperature gradient in the vivarium.
That way, your bearded dragon has the room to regulate its own temperature.
Is it better to keep bearded dragon in a screen or glass cage?
It really depends on the individual situation. Screen cages offer the benefit of increased airflow, but glass cages do offer a better view of the pet in many cases. Additionally, glass cages are often the best choice for very young bearded dragons, as the mesh can sometimes be too strong for a juvenile animal to grip for basking and climbing.
On the other hand, glass cages can be more expensive and require additional cleaning to ensure the enclosure remains free from mold and mildew.
When deciding which type of cage is best, consider what is most important for your particular bearded dragon. If the animal is young, more fragile, or in need of extra air circulation, a screen cage may be the better choice.
If an aesthetically pleasing enclosure or one that offers a better view of the animal is desired, then a glass cage may be the right option. In general, the choice really comes down to the needs of the specific reptile, the space available, and the housing budget of the pet owner.
