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LIGHTNING |
| There are may discussions
on what type of light should be used, for turtles in captivity.
Nothing can replace the natural sunlight, the animals "need". Personally
I know people that are keeping there turtles indoors for about
25 years now, and the only light they see is the one of a light bulb. I'm
not saying that's the answer, but the animals don't seem to have any
complaints. Natural light gives the turtle vitamin D3, or if not present a
substitute can be given. Do not give the animal vitamin D3 if it stays
outdoors. There are many types of light that can be used. Tubes together
with normal light bulbs make the better combination. The tubes give a broad
spectrum and much light. Light bulbs give fewer light but give heat, what
is needed to let the turtle bask. Light bulbs or spots are necessary, not
only to give light but for the heat they produce. This way a water heater
is not necessary. Make sure that the animals can't reach the light bulbs because they will burn
themselves. Be careful with what kind of material u
use. Don't use 100watt light bulbs in sockets for light bulbs that are
suited for 60 watt bulbs. You can either make you own light combination
or buy one in a store. There are many different ways of
constructing a light hood, all depends on how the tank is used, and where
it's placed in your home. Give your animals a natural rhythm when it comes
to light. This means give the turtles a lightning period of 8 hours during
the winter months and about 12-14 hour in summer. Set the lights with a
timer so the animals daily get the same time of light. Go with the
seasons, from jan on 8 hours, feb 9 hours, mar. 10 hours and so on until
sept. when you start back again. This lightning method will also stimulate
breeding, this together with a cooler period in winter time. A light hood
also has the advantage that the humidity stays high. Using dubble sided
polycarbonate plates are ideal for this. This material is easy to handle
and holes can be made into them for the light sockets.
Before you install uv lights above your turtles read this (click/link )
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