Reptiles are ectothermic — that means cold-blooded! Cold-blooded doesn’t mean that reptiles like cold weather. It means that reptiles rely on external temperature to regulate body temperature. If you’ve ever seen reptiles in the wild, you may have seen them sunning themselves on a rock for warmth, then moving into the shade to cool off.
You need to provide your pet reptile with a temperature gradient in their living space. This will allow the reptile (be it a snake, lizard, or turtle) to choose the appropriate temperature. Temperatures that are too high can overheat your reptile; temperatures that are too low can affect energy levels and digestion. Place a basking light at one end of the tank to create a warmer space at the higher end of the appropriate temperature range. The other end of the tank can be kept at a cooler temperature at the lower end of the appropriate range.
Different types of reptile like different housing accessories. A reptile that likes to hide may need an enclosure in both the warmer and cooler ends of the tank. Only providing one shelter means your reptile may be “stuck” in his hiding spot when it is not what his body needs. A reptile that likes to climb (like a lizard) needs appropriate temperatures up in the branches and along the ground. Your reptile should be able to keep to his natural behaviors (like hiding or climbing) and still be able to thermoregulate.
You should invest in a couple of good thermometers and check the temperature in different areas of the cage throughout the day. Pay special attention to the spots where your reptile is spending a lot of his time to make sure the temperature is appropriate. Overhead heating — so your reptile can bask in the “sun” — can be supplemented with under tank heating. Make sure that whatever heating source you use is shielded; direct contact with heating sources can cause burns.
If you’ll be using lights or lamps for heating, be sure to give your reptile some time in the dark, too. A slight temperature drop at night is fine for captive reptiles — this is what reptiles would experience in the wild! A regular day and night cycle will help keep your reptile healthy and happy.
Some reptiles also need to be exposed to ultraviolet light — especially turtles, tortoises, and non-nocturnal lizards. Ultraviolet light helps your reptile produce vitamin D3, which is used in metabolizing calcium. Look for a full spectrum light, that produces UVB wavelengths. Plan on replacing the bulb at least once a year.
More snake info from Families.com!