Hi everyone! So I was wondering about what lights I should use. My Tortoise is going to be staying outside, so do I need a light? I am going to get a Adult leopard Tort Thanks!
Hi! So it depends on your temperatures. I'm not familiar with the climate in your area but if you read the caresheet and check out the temperatures that a leopard should be kept at you should be able to decide if you need to supplement with a heat lamp or a CHE (ceramic heat emitter) or other heat source. Check this out...
You may need to build a heated night box if your night time temps are too low (I'm guessing this will be the case). There are some great instructions on this forum on how to build a night box. Just search for Tom's night box. Tom is a long time keeper and has provided endless amounts of helpful info... including the night box instructions.
Here is another great thread by Tom for new tortoise owners...
Like already stated, depends on your temps. In the summer time here in Chicago Illinois I do not give added heat, but I do give light only in their shed. Then at night the lights are turned off.
In spring and fall temps when temps can be colder i will turn the basking bulbs on in their shed if temps in the 70's. If lower then 70's I will heat the whole shed.
Your leopard will need a heated, insulated shelter for times when your weather is below optimal for the tortoise. Optimal for a leopard tortoise is upwards of 75F. On cooler days, if the sun is shining, he can get warm by sitting in the sun.