Lighting For Bearded Dragons
Keeping your bearded dragon happy and healthy goes far beyond food and a spacious enclosure—lighting plays a critical role in their overall well-being. Proper lighting mimics their natural environment, helping them thrive in captivity. In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about bearded dragon lighting.
Why Lighting Matters
Bearded dragons are native to the warm, sunny regions of Australia. In the wild, they rely on natural sunlight for heat and UV exposure. In captivity, the right combination of lighting ensures they can:
- Regulate body temperature through basking
- Synthesize vitamin D3 to absorb calcium
- Maintain strong bones and prevent metabolic bone disease
- Stay active and display natural behaviors
Types of Lighting Your Bearded Dragon Needs
1. UVB Lighting
UVB light is essential for vitamin D3 synthesis. Without it, your dragon cannot properly process calcium, which can lead to serious health issues.
- Choose a high-quality UVB lamp designed for reptiles.
- Replace the UVB bulb every 6–12 months, even if it still looks functional—UV output diminishes over time.
- Ensure the light covers at least 2/3 of the enclosure for proper exposure.
2. Heat/Basking Light
Bearded dragons are ectothermic, meaning they rely on external heat sources.
- Provide a basking spot with a temperature range of 95–105°F (35–40°C).
- The cooler side of the enclosure should stay around 75–85°F (24–29°C).
- Use a thermometer to monitor temperatures regularly.
3. Day/Night Cycle
A consistent day-night rhythm helps your beardie stay healthy.
- Offer 12–14 hours of light per day.
- Turn off lights at night to simulate natural darkness—avoid colored night bulbs as they can disturb sleep.
Setting Up the Lighting
- Place UVB and heat lamps side by side above the basking spot so your bearded dragon gets both heat and UV exposure at once.
- Position the UVB lamp inside or close to the enclosure top, unobstructed by glass or plastic, which can block UV rays.
- Always secure fixtures to prevent accidents.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using household bulbs as UVB substitutes
- Placing UVB lights too far away from the basking area
- Leaving lights on 24/7
- Forgetting to replace UVB bulbs regularly
Final Thoughts
Proper lighting is one of the most important aspects of bearded dragon care. With the right UVB and heat setup, your beardie will stay strong, active, and full of personality.
💡 At LuminPacific, we’re committed to creating innovative reptile lighting solutions that bring the best of the natural environment into your enclosure. Explore our Reptile Lighting Collection to give your bearded dragon the care it deserves.
