Just a quick question: At the moment I am using a Zilla Fresh Air Screen as a cover and it works wonderfully. It fits the tank beautifully, the basking area temperature is wonderful, and it prevents any hypothetical escape attempts (As far as I know Shelldon does not seem to want to escape from the tank) and it would stop the lamps from falling in (though the lamps have been very stable).
Link to the product description on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Zilla-Reptile-Te ... B000QFQ30K My only concern is UVB. ATM I am using a Zoomed 50 Watt Heat Bulb with UVA, and an Exoterra UVB 100 bulb 26W, both about one foot from the basking area (using the Zoomed lamp stand and dual lamp) to provide a good temperature (ranging from around 87-91 degrees F, with multiple measurements), and proper UVB distance (according to the lighting guide on the lightbulb box). But since the Zilla Fresh Air Screen has a tight grid, I'm concerned that she is not getting enough UVB. The grid seems to be half a cm, and I read in the Habitat section that that could restrict UVB light. It is vexing though, as I love everything else about this screen... I have hardware cloth with 0.5 inch grids I can use to make a new one if necessary, but I am rather fond of the Zilla Fresh Air Screen. Any thoughts?
In terms of basking behavior, Shelldon basks frequently, both in focus basks, and bask bursts, where she will go up and down the ramp repeatedly for a period of time.
I've used this screen for about 7-8 months, and I have not detected any obvious problems but...
Thank you,
What is the water temperature? 78 Degrees F
Did you use a thermometer? Yes
Are you using a water heater? Yes
How much water is in there? About 23.3 Gallons
Current Tank: 40 Gallon Tank Breeder
Tank Width: 17 In. W
Total Tank Depth: Around 17 In.H
Water Depth: 10 In. (Add 4 In. to Carapace Length)
Length: About 48 In L
Are you using a water conditioner? Yes
Are you using any filtration? Yes
What is the basking temperature? 88.2 Degrees F
Is there a basking light? Yes
Is there a basking platform that is easy to climb on? Yes
What kind is it or what is it made out of? Oasis Turtle Ramp (Large)
Is there a UVB light? Yes
What have you been trying to feed it? Vegetables and Pellets
When was the last time your turtle ate? This afternoon
How big is the tank/pond/enclosure?
Is the tank near a window? No
Is the tank in a room with a lot of activity? No
Have you read the Basic Care section? Yes
Have you searched the forums for similar situations? Yes
Is there any other unusual activity/symptoms? No