How close to UVB light?

[modernjamie]

Hi all,

Since I stay home all day, I can observe my new cham throughout the entire day. I noticed that my panther chameleon (3month old) would sit on a branch/vine all day long right below the UVB light. He would not bask. I know that chams are not supposed to be so close to the basking light, but can they be close to the UVB light without harming themselves? My cham is sitting right below the UVB light (about 2" below the fixture) and he got me worried... Any input will be greatly appreciated!

 

[Carlton]

Hi all,

Since I stay home all day, I can observe my new cham throughout the entire day. I noticed that my panther chameleon (3month old) would sit on a branch/vine all day long right below the UVB light. He would not bask. I know that chams are not supposed to be so close to the basking light, but can they be close to the UVB light without harming themselves? My cham is sitting right below the UVB light (about 2" below the fixture) and he got me worried... Any input will be greatly appreciated!

They need to be within 12" of the UV light to get the full benefit. If the upper part of the cage is warm he may not seek out the basking light just to warm up. Chams are attracted to bright light and height, which in the wild also means heat. Usually, if you put the basking bulb near the UV bulb it encourages the cham to get its warm up and its UV radiation at the same time. The correct UV lights are not hot or intense enough to burn.