When it comes to reptiles one of the most common questions people have is whether or not they need a heat lamp. The simple answer is that it depends on the species of reptile. Some reptiles such as snakes don’t require a heat lamp because they’re cold-blooded animals. Other reptiles such as lizards need a heat lamp because they’re warm-blooded animals.
So do snakes need a heat lamp? The answer is no they don’t. Snakes are cold-blooded animals which means that they don’t generate their own body heat. Instead they rely on their environment to provide the heat they need. In the wild snakes will basking in the sun to regulate their body temperature.
In captivity however it’s important to provide your snake with a basking spot that mimics the heat of the sun. This can be done with a heat lamp. Place the heat lamp in one corner of the enclosure and make sure that it’s not too close to the snake so that it can’t burn itself. The heat lamp will create a basking spot for the snake to regulate its body temperature.
It’s important to remember that snakes are not the only reptiles that don’t require a heat lamp. Some turtles and tortoises also don’t require a heat lamp because they’re able to regulate their body temperature in other ways.
If you have any questions about whether or not your reptile needs a heat lamp be sure to ask a professional.
How much heat does a baby snake need?
A baby snake needs a basking spot of 88 to 90 degrees.
How often should I change the bulb in my snake’s heat lamp?
You should change the bulb in your snake’s heat lamp every 6 months.
My snake isn’t using her heat lamp.
Is something wrong?
Not necessarily.
If the room temperature is between 70-85 degrees your snake may not need the additional heat.
What kind of bulb should I use for my snake’s heat lamp?
You should use a red blue or black Infrared Heat Bulb.
I’m not sure if my snake’s heat lamp is working.
How can I tell?
Place your hand about 6 inches from the heat lamp.
If you feel heat it is working.
Should I turn off my snake’s heat lamp at night?
No snakes need a consistent temperature.
You can turn the heat lamp off during the day if the room temperature is warm enough.
I’m going on vacation.
Can I leave my snake’s heat lamp on?
Yes you can leave your snake’s heat lamp on while you’re away.
Make sure to ask a trusted friend or family member to check on your snake while you’re gone.
What happens if my snake’s heat lamp gets too hot?
If your snake’s heat lamp gets too hot it could start a fire.
Always use a thermostat to regulate the temperature.
What happens if my snake’s heat lamp isn’t hot enough?
If your snake’s heat lamp isn’t hot enough your snake will become sluggish and could eventually die.
Do I need to worry about my snake getting too close to the heat lamp?
Yes you should make sure your snake can’t reach the heat lamp.
Snakes can get burned if they get too close to the heat source.
I think my snake’s heat lamp is too hot.
What should I do?
Move the heat lamp further away from your snake’s enclosure or get a lower wattage bulb.
I think my snake’s heat lamp is too cold.
What should I do?
Move the heat lamp closer to your snake’s enclosure or get a higher wattage bulb.
My snake seems to be avoiding her heat lamp.
Is something wrong?
Not necessarily.
If the room temperature is warm enough your snake may not be using the heat lamp.
I accidentally dropped my snake’s heat lamp.
Is it still safe to use?
No you should not use a heat lamp that has been dropped.
It could be damaged and could start a fire.
I’m not sure how to set up my snake’s heat lamp.
Can you help?
Sure! Place the heat lamp on the outside of the snake’s enclosure.
Make sure the bulb is not touching the cage and that the snake can’t reach the heat lamp.
