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Most animals require sunlight (at least 30 minutes each day) so
that they can synthesize vitamin D. If animals are housed outdoors,
this is not a concern; however, lack of sunlight will result in
skeletal problems (e.g. metabolic bone disease) when animals are
kept indoors. Vitamin D can be added to diets, but exposure to the
sun or full spectrum light ensures bone health while providing the
animal with basking opportunity and a means of relieving stress.
Filtered light (e.g. through glass) is not useful, thus if the enclosure
is not in front of an open screened window, a full spectrum lamp
may be provided. Appropriate U.V. lamps can be purchased through
most large pet stores.
Full spectrum lights, products and suppliers are discussed at http://www.anapsid.org/.
Although this website provides information on the care and housing
of reptiles and amphibians, the information and resources on lighting
are very good and the suppliers list is useful.
Lighting
Supplies (from Supplies Database)
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