How to Make Basking Spots for Reptiles

Reptiles can live in terrariums with special equipment designed for their needs. One of those important needs is having a basking spot. Reptiles need a basking spot within their tank to regulate their body temperatures and to provide vitamin D. Reptiles are cold-blooded; they need to be able to move in and out of warmth to regulate their body temperatures. They need vitamin D to allow their bodies to absorb calcium. If reptiles have insufficient amounts of calcium they can develop health problems. They may become sluggish and be at risk for metabolic bone disease. By making a basking spot for reptiles you are ensuring their ability to remain healthy in captivity.

Things You'll Need

  • Heat lamp
  • UV light
  • Under-tank heat source
  • Leafy plants
  • Large rocks
  • Thermometer
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Place the heat lamp and UV light within the same area of the tank. The lamps should be in one portion of the terrarium to ensure the reptiles can bask in one spot and move to shaded areas when needed. This will mimic what they do in the wild. Leave lamps on for an optimal 12 hours a day.

    • 2

      Regulate the terrarium's heat during cooler weather or at night when the heat lamps are off by using an under-tank additional heat source. This will protect the reptile's health all year. Under-tank heat sources can be found in pet stores where reptiles and amphibians are sold.

    • 3

      Arrange flat rocks or driftwood directly under the heat and UV lamps. The lamps should be high enough to allow for the reptiles to lie on the basking spot without impeding their ability to stand or walk. If the lamps are too close to the basking spot the reptiles could become injured with burns.

    • 4

      Provide leafy plants and larger rocks that the reptiles can hide behind or under when they decide to move to a shaded area in the tank. Position the larger rocks to form a small cave big enough for the reptiles to hide in. This provides for temperature gradient in the terrarium, replicating the natural environment of the reptiles.

    • 5

      Utilize a thermometer in the tank to monitor the heat level. If the temperature gets too hot, allow the terrarium to cool. Replace heat lamps with lower-watt heat bulbs. Heat lamp bulbs come in a variety of wattages for the different heat needs of specific reptiles.