Please help! (lighting for russian)

[Thadus]

Hello, I wanna get a Russian Tortoise, to convince my parents that I am able to care for a animal I am doing research on Russian tortoises. One thing that I am confused about is what type of lights or light should I get? I hear that a Mercury Vapor Bulb (MVB) works the best, if so then do I still need a Ultraviolet Bulb (UVB) and Heating Bulb (HB) or can I just get a MVB? Please help I really want a tortoise!

 

[Yvonne G]

Your best option for light for your Russian tortoise is the sun. If there's no way to set him up outside, then the UVB will be provided by the mercury vapor bulb.

 

[Thadus]

I'm sorry, I'm just a beginner what do you mean by "Then the UVB will be provided by the mercury bulb"?

 

[Yelloweyed]

MVBs supply UVB lighting as well as heat and light. Just make sure you avoid the "coil" bulb.

 

[Thadus]

Ok good to know,

 

[Tom]

GIve this a read through. All the lighting and UV info is explained in here:
http://www.tortoiseforum.org/threads/russian-tortoise-care-sheet.80698/

This one will offer some tips too:
http://www.tortoiseforum.org/threads/beginner-mistakes.45180/

 

[Thadus]

Do you think this is a good bulb/lamp? http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00101JIFG/?tag=exoticpetnetw-20

 

[Tom]

Those are fine.

 

[Thadus]

ok thank you

 

[turdle yerdle]

ok thank you

Just don't use coil bulbs, it's not good for the eyes

 

[Thadus]

OK good to know