Habitat - Indoor :: proper amount of uvb

[TNTurtles]

What is the proper amount of uvb light that they should be getting? Most people just ask if 5 or 10 % is ok and the answer is usually yes. My old one broke and it had 5% and the only one they had at petsmart has 3%. Good enough??

[marisa]

The ESU UVB coil lamp? Some people don't like them. In a pinch I've used them and have never had a problem with them, either with the health of the turtles that basked under them or with their longevity. The 3% is the bare minimum a turtle should bask under, and they should be close to the turtle (6 inches), and they should be changed frequently (at least 6 months).

You could use it and get a higher-rated light when you find one, but since it will soon be summer, you could make sure your turtle is getting enough UVB rays by taking him outside several times a week for unfiltered sunlight and supplement with the light. I've done this with the 3% ones I've used and then bought a stronger one in the fall, when my turtle wouldn't be going outside.

[TNTurtles]

yes it is the esu uv coil lamp. I took my turtles with me for 5 days and the 5% bulb i had got knocked and broke so it was the only thing left in petsmart. It will have to do for now i guess and I'm sure i can take them outside soon! thanks alot!