Zoo med repot basking bulb

[Wehiggins2004]

is it ok to use a repti basking spot lamp for a chameleon? I am having trouble keeping the cage above 72 degrees in the basking area so I was going to go to a warmer bulb. Thanks

 

[Angelwolf]

72 is fine as an ambient temp. It's only directly beneath the basking light that you want the temp to be 85-90. The cham needs an area of warmth, and an area of cooling to regulate it's body temp. The bulb you show is too powerful for most chams. It's for desert reptiles, not tropicals. They can also get burned, so no, I would not use that bulb.

 

[Wehiggins2004]

72 is fine as an ambient temp. It's only directly beneath the basking light that you want the temp to be 85-90. The cham needs an area of warmth, and an area of cooling to regulate it's body temp. The bulb you show is too powerful for most chams. It's for desert reptiles, not tropicals. They can also get burned, so no, I would not use that bulb.

Ok ty so much !!

 

[Wehiggins2004]

Her basking spot is 72 just to clarify I have her thermometer at her basking area.

 

[Wehiggins2004]

This USC the bulb I'm using with only a 72 degree basking area.

 

[Angelwolf]

That should be fine. 100w is about the highest you want to go. What's the room temperature? Either the roomyou have your lizard in is too cold, or your light is too far away from his basking branch. Don't forget, you want to measure from what would be approximately the highest part of the animal. And your basking branch should be 4-6" from the bulb. Can you post a picture of the set up?

 

[Wehiggins2004]

Ty for your help!! I went to petsmart and bought a better 100 w bulb and her basking area is now warmer! Angelwolf .. your chameleon is beautiful!! How old and is it make or female? We have a female kiwi who is about 1 yr old now . I wonder if she will grow as large as yours. Thanks again for your help

 

[Angelwolf]

Mine is about a year old. (A little over) He's a boy. I'm not sure, but I think the girls stay a little smaller.