Right: elevated
basking spots
can allow a
reptile to bask
closer to the
sources of heat
and UV light,
whilst also being
very natural for
many species.
Image by Sam
Dessen.
UV lights also have a limited effective lifespan, as
over time the UVB output will significantly weaken.
Unlike many heat globes that will essentially ‘blow’
and stop working when their time is up, UV lights
can continue running long after they cease to be
effective, and the amount of visible (white) light
emitted will commonly appear to be undiminished.
Most lights only give off adequate amounts of UVB
for 6-12 months; the lifespan varies considerably
between brands, as well as depending on the type
of light used. When a new UV light is fitted into an
enclosure it is helpful to write the date of first use on
the light itself with a permanent marker, or recor d it
elsewhere. The output of a UV light can be tested
using a UV meter, and most specialist reptile stores
will have one of these gadgets handy to test your
lights. Ensure that you are aware of the average
lifespan for the particular light you are purchasing.
In addition, UV lights come in a range of standard
strengths, with different UV outputs that are suitable
for different groups of Australian native reptiles and
amphibians:
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