Question about little cooter turtles and light?

Question

i have two turtles and they share this bigger island outside. I live in florida so they just bask in the sun, but lately its been a little chilly so i thought maybe i could use my booklight to keep there island warm. Is that ok or do i need a certain type of bulb. its one of those book lights that you can bend any way.

please no long answers that tell me about feeding and taking care of them

all i need is this answer

Answer 1

http://www.flickr.com/photos/29035692@N0...

I have had my 2 slider  girls for 36 yrs. Plus an 8 and 5 yr old and now a 2 yr old adopted from this site.. Been in a pond for almost 7 yrs now.

They need a UVB light to bask and grow, They get vitamin D from sunlight like you and I do.

I have my in a pond and in the winter I put 2 heaters in and keep it at 75 to 78 degrees.

I have a UVA light that is used in the winter for them also.

Their pond is always stocked with 100's of fish and they do great. Their eating slows down in the winter cause captive turtles  don't hibernate in the winter.

Answer 2

definitely get them a uv bulb. every reptile needs one. they will stay nice and warm.  they cost about 5 dollars but they last along time.  

Answer 3

If they are outside, they don't need either a UV or a heating light. Further, turtles have been surviving in Florida for a long time without human help. Why should these two need you to keep them warm?

Answer 4

I don't see why you couldn't use one, but I really wouldn't recommend it. I would get a Zoomed repti basking lamp and a zilla clamp lamp. they work well and will help make sure they get the right amount of heat on chilly days.

Answer 5

Basking spots are recommended to be around 90 degrees F.  So... since I have no clue how close the light is to them, nor how hot???

I can't really answer this for you.   A white bulb will likely disturb their night cycle.  I'd suggest an Infrared basking light (they don't see red light).  Zoomed makes a good one.

But, if you are going to let them hibernate outside, I wouldn't suggest warming them at night with a light.  Just 'let nature take its course,' as the adage goes.

If you are planning to winter them indoors, then yes, a light would be beneficial if it's getting a bit too cool at night (most respiratory ailments are caused by too cool temperatures).

Sorry I couldn't be of more help, and enjoy your turtles.