Do you own a pet bearded dragon? If so, then you know how important it is to keep bearded dragon light schedule consistent. But do you really know the specifics of what their light schedule needs to be?
Bearded dragons are lizards that can reach up to 24 inches as adults. As ectotherms, they rely on external sources of heat, such as special lighting and a temperature gradient, in order to maintain their body temperature and health.
This is why knowing their exact light schedule is important.
Bearded dragons have very specific requirements when it comes to their light schedules, and failure to adhere by them could lead to major health problems for your reptilian friend.
In this article, we’ll look at the ideal bearded dragon light schedule, how different elements impact when it should be adjusted, and some other tips for fostering a healthy environment for your pet dragon.
Bearded Dragon Light Schedule: Guide for Beginners
The ideal light schedule for a bearded dragon should include both UVA and UVB lighting. UVA lighting is important for stimulating their appetite, while UVB lighting helps them to synthesize Vitamin D3, which is essential for calcium absorption.
The amount of time that your bearded dragon needs to be exposed to these lights will depend on the age of your pet. For hatchlings and juveniles ( up to 12 months old), the ideal light schedule is 8-12 hours of UVA and UVB lighting per day.
For adults, the ideal light schedule is 10-14 hours of UVA and UVB lighting per day.
It’s important to note that these times are just guidelines, and you should adjust your bearded dragon’s light schedule based on their individual needs.
In addition to the amount of time, the intensity of the light is also important. UVA and UVB lighting should be kept at a moderate level, as too much can cause health problems for your pet.
It’s also important to note that natural sunlight is not an adequate substitute for UVA and
. Natural sunlight does contain some UVA and UVB rays, but not enough to provide your pet with the necessary levels of these essential elements.
Finally, it’s important to keep in mind that the light schedule should remain consistent throughout the year. This means that you should not adjust the amount of time or intensity of lighting based on the season or weather conditions.
What Lighting Does a Bearded Dragon Need?
Bearded dragons are one of the most popular pet reptiles, and for good reason. They’re relatively easy to care for and can make great companions.
However, in order to keep your bearded dragon healthy and happy, you need to provide them with the right lighting.
The most important thing to remember when it comes to lighting a bearded dragon’s tank is that they don’t need any colored lights. Colored lights can throw off their natural circadian rhythm, which can lead to health problems down the line.
Instead, you’ll want to focus on providing your bearded dragon with bright white light during the day and a dimmer red light at night. This will help them regulate their body temperature and sleep cycle more effectively.
Additionally, you’ll want to make sure that whatever bulb you use is UVB-emitting so that your bearded dragon can get enough vitamin D3 from the sun’s rays. With these simple steps in place, your bearded dragon should be able to thrive in its new home!
Bearded Dragon Cage Temperatures
In addition to providing your bearded dragon with the right lighting, it’s also important to make sure that their cage is kept at the proper temperature.
Bearded dragons are cold-blooded creatures, so they rely on their environment to regulate their body temperature.
The ideal temperature range for a bearded dragon’s cage is between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. At night, you’ll want to lower the temperature to between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
To help maintain these temperatures, you’ll need to use a combination of heating lamps and ceramic heat emitters.
Finally, it’s important to remember that the temperature in your bearded dragon’s cage should remain consistent throughout the day and night.
This means that you should not adjust the temperature based on the season or weather conditions. By providing your pet with the right lighting and temperature, you can ensure that they stay healthy and happy for years to come!
Leave a Reply