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Environmental Husbandry Manual Click here for CONTENTS Page No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior written permission of the author - For contact details see about the author |
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Individual Methods for
Enclosure Design
UV-Lighting
The methods outlined in this section relate to features of enclosure construction and layout which may be used to enhance the living conditions of animals, including the use of shelter areas, vegetation, viewing platforms and climbing structures.
UV-Lighting |
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| Method | Lamps within enclosure, or portable lamps directed from outside while animals gather around a food source. Length of exposure will vary with species, but several short exposures are better that a single long one. | |
| Species | Amphibians, all Reptiles except Snakes. | |
| Purpose | UV-Light is necessary for bone development, as it affects calcium uptake. | |
| Pro | Use of UV-Lights maintains health by reducing mineral deficiencies. | |
| Con | Timers are not always reliable, and should be checked. UV-Light is harmful to eyes, so should not be used for prolonged periods. | |
| Improvements | -- | |
| Comments | It is possible to do without UV-Lamps by feeding dietary supplements, but many reptile species suffer mineral deficient bone diseases in captivity due to an inability to absorb minerals in their diets, even from mineral rich foods. Glass will stop the UV-Rays reaching the animals, so exposure must take place without windows acting as a barrier. | |
| Frequency of Use | Use of UV-Light varies with species. | |
| Ratings | Usefulness | 9 |
| Convenience | 7 | |
| Value For Money | 9 | |
| Range of Users | 9 | |
| Contributed By | Reptile Section | |