UVB help?

[ToriTheTortoiseLover]

I have a young Russian Tortoise who is about 6-8 months old. I bought her a 5.0 Zoo med UVB bulb.https://www.petsuppliesplus.com/cat...0-UVB-Tropical-Compact-Fluorescent-Lamp/5214\

I was wondering if she needed the 10.0 because she is a grassland tortoise?

 

[tortdad]

That's the wrong bulb... don't use "compact" florescent.

Use the long tube type... the ones that are like 18" long

The compact ones have been known to cause eye issues.

As far as 5.0 vs 10.0. It depends on how high above the tort it's mounted. Look at the box and it will tell you have far down the uvb actually projects.

I use the reptiSun 10.0 because I have a large enclosure and that particular bulb projects it's uvb down 20".

 

[tortdad]

People like to jump to those compact bulbs because they don't want to buy the expensive hood that they need for the longer bulbs.

You can buy a regular light assembly and save some money. Check this link out.

http://www.tortoiseforum.org/threads/fitting-for-uv-strip-light.158541/

 

[Russian Tortoise Lover!]

I have never heard that before but it sounds right. I have a light that dangles/hangs above Roxy's habitat, I think it depends on the situation. Also, check and see if your tort hangs out more in the warm or cold side of your habitat. If it is the warm side, get a warmer bulb. As long as your tort is happy and healthy, you should be fine.

 

[daniellenc]

@tortdad thanks to you that's what I got. Just took the white cover off off the housing and drilled 2 holes. Very simple and cheap!

 

[tortdad]

Hardware stores are your best friend. Most Pet products just take advantage of you.