For an indoor enclosure I was advised that a uv light could affect my tortoises eyes is that correct? Also is an infra red light ok and if so how long is it safe to leave on?
thanks

Hi Hazel,
Have you been supplied with an infra-red light rather than a UV light then please?

Hi Hazel,
Have you been supplied with an infra-red light rather than a UV light then please?

HI
Yes I have an infra red light as I was advised that a light with UV could damage my tortoise's eyes. Since I bought it I have become concerned that the advice was wrong as presumably if for example a combined light replicates the sun it should be no different from when Basil is outside in natural light. He is due to come out of hibernation soon (he had a late start) and I want to ensure that I have the right set up. So should i get something else like one of the following: Exo Terra Solar Glo, Megaray, Arcadia D£3 UV light, Arcadia D3 Mini UVB (80w) or the Aracadia compact reptile lamp 23w?
If so can they be left on when I am out e.g. at work? I am worried particularly about fire but I have a thick piece of slate for him to bask on so if I focus the light on that and then get a rcd for the plug would that overcome the fire risk? I would also have the light so he could move away from it if he wanted to. I've also read that these lamps have to be positioned vertically, is that also the case. I do have an Arcadia ceramic reflecter lamp holder with a clamp.

Hi Hazel,

Throw away the infra-red lamp. UVB is vitally important. Tortoises need the vitamin D3 they obtain from the UVB in order to synthesise the calcium into shell and bone growth. Whoever advised you they shouldn't have UVb is extremely irresponsible:-(.
I would go for the Megaray or the Arcadia 100w. The problem with eyesight damage occurs when a clamp lamp is used and the light shines directly into a tortoise's eyes. You can purchase a lamp stand, they are very good and secure and will minimise the fire hazard as they can be fitted securely.
If you go to Megaray site they supply the lamp stands as well as other retailers:-

Lamp
http://www.megaray.co.uk/clamp-lamp-p-34.html

Lampstand
http://www.megaray.co.uk/large-lamp-stand-p-135.html

HTH
Darren

Thanks Darren, yes that does help. I feel pretty stupid for asking but then Basil is far more important. I've got time to go and get what's needed ready for him when he comes out of his fridge.
Thanks again

Hazel

Hi Hazel,

It's not a problem at all. The trouble is when you are given advice from someone you think is reputable, you tend to think it's ok. All credit to you for doing your own research.....many don't to the tortoise's detriment:-(
Good Luck and please feel free to drop by if you'd like any further advice

Kindest Regards
Darren

May I ask wheat species your tortoise is please?

He's a mediterranean spur thigh, between the ages of 60 to 100.

Yep definitely go for the megaray. If he has access to a large enclosure e.g. shed or greenhouse, I'd go for the 160w lamp.

HTH
Darren

Thanks Darren
I will be getting the right lighting ready for Basil for when he comes out of hibernation.
best wishes

Hazel

You're welcome - have a nice long weekend:-)

can you use a 100 watt bulb Mega Ray MR100 SPL03/14