REPTILE PREFERRED BODY TEMPERATURE

All reptiles have a preferred body temperature (PBT) and their enclosure should provide both basking and cooler areas that have a temperature range of 2-30C either side of this PBT.

Species Scientific Name PBT (degrees Celcius)

Childrens Python Anatresia childreni 30 - 33C

Coastal Carpet Python Morelia spilota variegata 30 - 32C

Diamond Python Morelia spilota spilota 29 - 30C

Bearded Dragon Pogona sp. 35 - 39C

Eastern Snake-Necked Turtle (long neck) Chelodina longicollis 26C

Murray River Turtle (short neck) Emydura macquarii 26C

Blue Tongue Lizard Tiliqua Scincoides 28 - 32C

• Use a 40-75 watt blue light globe or infrared heatlamps in, or over, one end of the enclosure.

• A cool area, preferably at the far end away from the basking spot, should be provided to allow a temperature range within the enclosure. A lesser alternative is to have a sheltered area made from rocks and hollow logs.

• The use of heat rocks can cause skin burns and is not recommended.

• Heat mats may also cause skin burns and should be used with caution.

• A separate source of ultraviolet (UV) light, either through exposure to unfiltered, natural sunlight, or an artificial UV light will help prevent Vitamin D deficiency, and skin and bone disorders. Remember to replace the light regularly (every 3-6 months) as it will lose strength, even though the light still works.