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REPTILE / new pets

How Much Heat and Light Do Reptiles & Amphibians Need?

A guide to temperature and UV light for reptiles

Overview

Heat and light needs by species

Reptiles and amphibians have different lighting & heating needs depending on where they’re from and whether they’re nocturnal (more active at night), diurnal (more active during the day) or crepuscular (active during dawn & dusk).

Lighting

Many reptiles & amphibians require support from UVB to help support their immune system, stimulate production of endorphins, and play a vital role in skin synthesis of Vitamin D3 which directly aids in calcium absorption for strong bones! Most UVB bulbs also provide UVA, which is essential for promoting normal behavior.

For pets whose wild counterparts enjoy the forest floor or a less intense sun, a “tropical” UVB bulb (sometimes referred to as 5.0 UVB) mimics filtered sunlight. Pets who would enjoy being out-and-about when the sun is most intense, need a “desert” UVB bulb (sometimes referred to as 10.0 UVB). If you are unsure of what your pet needs, consult the packaging or ask any PetSmart associate!

Heating

Every reptile or amphibian species has different heating requirements and always need a warm-side and a cool-side during the day and at night. This helps them regulate their temperatures appropriately so they can be happy, healthy, and active!

The following chart provides recommendations for the common habitats sold at PetSmart. Smaller enclosures may require lower watt bulbs while larger enclosures may require higher. Check the packaging for more information or consult a PetSmart associate for recommendations

Shop reptile heating & lighting Shop reptile humidity & temperature controls

Heat & Lighting Requirements by Species

Reptile species
Target Day Temp. Ranges °F
(Cool side–Warm side)
Suggested Heat Source*
UVB bulb
Anole
75-90
50W heat bulb
Tropical
Ball Python
80-90
Under-tank heater
Tropical/None
Bearded Dragon
75-100
100W heat bulb
Desert
Corn snake
70-85
Under-tank heater
Tropical/None
Crested Gecko
75-85
50W heat bulb
Tropical/None
Giant Day Gecko
80-90
75W heat bulb
Tropical
Green Treefrog
70-85
50W heat bulb
Tropical
Kenyan Sand Boa
80-95
Under-tank heater
Tropical/None
King Snake
70-85
Under-tank heater
Tropical/None
Leopard Gecko
75-90
75W heat bulb
Tropical/None
Long-tailed Lizard
75-90
75W heat bulb
Tropical
Milk Snake
70-85
Under-tank heater
Tropical/None
Pacman Frog
65-85
50W heat bulb
Tropical/None
Painted Turtle
75-95
100W heat bulb
Desert
Red-eared Slider
75-95
100W heat bulb
Desert
Russian, Greek & Hermann’s Tortoise
72-95
100W heat bulb
Desert
Veiled Chameleon
70-95
75W heat bulb
Tropical

*This may vary based upon habitat size and set up. For recommendations, see the product packaging or ask a PetSmart associate.