Do snakes really need UVB lighting?
Authored by Georgina Rayner, of Swell Reptiles
In fact, many species of snake are not particularly nocturnal, or diurnal
Browse pretty much any reptile or snake forum, and you are likely to find at least one thread attempting to answer the question; “Do snakes need UV lighting?” A wide variety of snake species have been kept in captivity for decades now, so why does it seem so difficult to find a conclusive answer, to what seems like a fairly straightforward question?
Photo from Pete Hawkins (Reptile Apartment) – UVB Basking Royal/Ball Python
A traditional, and still widely accepted assumption, is that snakes do not need UV light, as the vast majority of species are nocturnal. In fact, many species of snake are not particularly nocturnal, or diurnal; their thermal and feeding requirements generally necessitate activity both by day and night.
A much advertised benefit of UVB light for reptiles in general, is that it is necessary to maintain proper Vitamin D3 and calcium levels. UVB light regulates the synthesis of Vitamin D3, and it is Vitamin D3 that allows reptiles to properly absorb and metabolise calcium. However, as far as snakes are concerned, it is generally accepted that they get all the calcium they need from the animals they eat. Consequently this is also given as a reason why captive snakes do not need UV lighting.
The Ferguson Zones concept estimates the natural UV exposure of different reptile species, and then segments these levels into four different zones:
Accepting such a notion also means concluding the fundamental benefit of UV light exposure is to metabolise calcium alone. However, research has found both, UVB and UVA light have many other benefits for reptiles as a whole, assisting the immune system, in skin, and with colour vision.
Research recently published in the Journal of Zoo and Aquarium Research and carried out by FRANCES M. BAINES, M.A., VetMB, MRCVS uses the concept of ‘Ferguson Zones’ to explore the levels of UVB light that each reptile species is naturally exposed to in the wild. Then, how best to replicate this in captivity. The Ferguson Zones concept estimates the natural UV exposure of different reptile species, and then segments these levels into four different zones:
Zone 1
Crepuscular, or Shade Dweller, thermal conformer. Suggested UVB: Shaded Method: gradient UVI 0-0.7.
Zone 2
Partial Sun/Occasional basker, thermoregulatory. Suggested UVB: Shaded Method: gradient UVI 0.7-1.0 (or Sunbeam Method: UVI range 1.1 – 3.0 in basking zone).
Zone 3
Open or partial sun basker, thermoregulator. Suggested UVB: Sunbeam Method: UVI range 2.9 – 7.4 in basking zone (or Shade Method: gradient UVI 1.0 – 2.6 over larger area).
Zone 4
Mid-day sun basker, thermoregulator. Suggested UVB: Sunbeam Method: UVI range 4.5 – 8.0 in basking zone.
The research places species of snake commonly kept as pets, such as corn snakes, and Burmese pythons, in zone 1.
With boa’s in zone 2.
The research therefore suggests that UV lighting is required, certainly by a notable number captive snake species.
Photo from Pete Hawkins (Reptile Apartment) – Corn snake UVB Basking
It also provides examples of products that can act as suitable sources of UV light for species that fall within each zone. As well as how to incorporate those products in your enclosure set-up.
The research therefore suggests that UV lighting is required, certainly by a notable number captive snake species.
With so many different stances on the subject, and new research emerging all the time to challenge traditionally held beliefs, how do you decide whether or not your snake needs UV lighting?
We here at Swell Reptiles believe it is always in the best interest of any reptile for keepers to try and replicate their natural environment as best they can. It is our view we should try to utilise as much information as possible in order to continually improve the care we provide our pets, rather than take a simple ‘right or wrong’ approach. That’s why we provide the option of UV lighting with all of our snake starter kits.
Recent research suggests, specific species of snake potentially do in fact need UV lighting; however, in order to make the most informed decisions about caring for your pet, it is imperative to review as much research as possible. Knowledge is power after all!