Grow light vrs UVB light

[Redebdragon]

I had been using an LED grow light and just changed it to a small UVB light right after doing this my cham Lupin became really active not sure if it is related have only had him for about a week and this is the most Ive seen him run around was the LED blinding him. Im really just curious but think it could help having a better understanding.

 

[Wildwilson]

LED lights produce very little if no UVB rays at all. Your cham needs to have UVBs for proper body functions. Hence why he is more active.

 

[Redebdragon]

So it shouldnt be any real issue to use both. I appreciate the quick reply I was worried I was blinding him for a week now

 

[Wildwilson]

Dont use both. Theres really no use for an LED. Just use the UVB and a basking bulb. A clear white 75 watt house bulb works just fine for a basking bulb. Dont use the blue or red bulbs. Your welcome for the fast reply. I wish some of my posts got replied to more quickly lol

 

[Redebdragon]

Ill have to see if I have a regular bulb on hand I do have the red night light any thoughts on that one.

 

[jamest0o0]

UVB is absolutely necessary and should have been there to begin with. I would read some care sheets on here.

If you have plants an LED grow light can work well for growth. I have jungle Dawn leds over my enclosures.

 

[jamest0o0]

No red night light. No lights at all at night.

 

[Redebdragon]

Even as a heat source it stays at about 72 in my house that wont be to cold for him.

 

[Boston Pitty]

Why not blues or reds? Is it just for natural light purposes? My heat bulb is a very light blue. Dosnt even show blue when its on.

 

[Wildwilson]

No 72 is not too cold. They can be ok at night around 65 to 70. Chams need absolute darkness to sleep.

 

[jamest0o0]

They can drop to 50s at night. As long as your house isn't under 55 you're fine. Reptiles have temperature swings in the wild. It's a common misconception that they should always have a heat light on them.

 

[Redebdragon]

Oh awesome that makes me feel so much better thanks to all any more advice would be greatly appreciated this will also help with the finishing touches Im putting on his larger cage.

 

[jamest0o0]

By the questions your asking, you have a lot to lesrn(which is alright, I don't mean to be rude), but you really need to read through the caresheets on here and it would help to fill out the "how to ask for help" form stickied at the top of the health clinic section. This will allow members to critique your husbandry and get you squared away. Bad husbandry is almost always the reason for premature chameleon deaths, so itd be in your best interest

 

[jamest0o0]

Let me find a link for you real quick

 

[jamest0o0]

https://www.chameleonforums.com/care/caresheets/

 

[Boston Pitty]

What does color of the light do? The guide does say white, but doesnt go into detail about why white vs the daylight, blue, and red?
Is daylight harmful? Thats the bulb Im currently using. Its a very light blue color but when on its white?
(Not aurguing, just curious)

 

[Redebdragon]

Ive read through most of these already but I like hearing other peoples experiences plus pet stores are usaully no help as they are normally trying to make a buck Lupin is nt my first chameleon but the other did die of mouth rot I kept away from getting another for years for that very reason but Im in a far better position now. I do agree I have alot to learn thats why Im here to learn specifics more than the generic info out there. I will be looking at the how to ask form thanks again much appreciated.

 

[Wildwilson]

Post a pic of your enclosure and we can give you some ideas

 

[Redebdragon]

Here are the images of the enclosures that I have. The small one is the one he is in now. The large one is the one I am building. I am growing a hibiscus now and it is in the small enclosure as well as some succulents. I will transfer them to the big cage when he is big enough. I will put more plants in it like bromeliads & some more Ivy Plants and maybe an elk horn plant. Let me know of any ideas you might have and any suggestions.

 

[Scottsquatch]

I would get more horizontal branches for him. Also consider closing in three sides if humidity is low where you are. Real potted plants with actual soil really help with humidity as well. Good luck.