[claudzilla]

I have a question: can those full-spectrum heat lamps that people use for reptiles be used for birds as well? The heat is not very dependable in my apartment, and I live in New York so it's only going to get colder. I'm worried about my parrotlet getting chilled. I also know that she needs the full spectrum of light to stay healthy, so I was thinking of getting her a reptile light. I wouldn't shine it all day, maybe a dose in the morning and a dose in the evening or something. Do any of you do anything like that? Is there any reason why that might be harmful to my bird?

:thankyou:

arrotletgreenhen:
Saturday (pacific parrotlet)

 

[nanay]

I am no expert, but I remember reading not to use the reptile lights, and I have no idea what the reasoning was behind it.

You are talking about using it as a heat source, sooooooooooo, that could be a totally different story. :shrug:

I know the article I read that advised against using reptile lamps was probably connected to a link either on here or on the other forum I frequent, "The Lineolated Parakeet Forum". And, honestly, it was most likely on the other forum. I also believe that the caution was given because the spectrum of light provided was not broad enough for birds, or perhaps just the wrong spectrum of light for birds.

As far as a heat source, I haven't read anything specifically regarding one of those bulbs as an alternate heat source.

Now, that is probably less helpful to you than if I had not posted at all, but I will try to find the link on the other forum for you.

 

[nanay]

OK,
The information I was referring to in the above post is found on "The Linnie Forum" on a thread started on 10-1-2010. The thread is under the general linnie health section, and I believe the title is "Full Spectrum Lighting?". It was started by Crystal.

I do not know if I am allowed to put the thread here, so I won't. However, Jenny, or anyone else, if it is okay to transfer the thread, I think it might be very helpful in responding to claudzilla's question.

 

[Jenny]

Nanay, feel free to link it here :thumbsup:

 

[nanay]

I hope this posts so that the link works. This is the post with the link to the lighting information. I would still advise you read that entire thread if you are able to do so, because it has many opinions in it.

"Ah, guys, if you want to use full spectrum lighting for birds, this is the guideline to follow:
Color Temperature: 5000 or above
CRI: 90 or above

You will note that some popular "avian" lamps do not have this high a rating. Inappropriate bulbs, according to research studies (I had downloaded a few - must look for them!) cause vitamin deficiencies, feather picking and behavioral problems in birds. DO NOT use goldfish or reptile bulbs sold in pet stores!

This is a link to one bulb that meets these specifications. It can be found in LOWE'S stores in the lightbulb department. Most new fixtures will accept these bulbs and they are not expensive. Do not place diffusers or glass over the bubs since it will block its UV benefits. http://www.buylighting.com/F40T12-Ch...p/p30203-0.htm

According to prize winning canary breeders, the best lighting for birds is Arcadia lighting, but they are not available in the USA. Proper bulbs emit UV light which is critical for absorption of calcium and the body's ability to produce Vitamin D3. No matter how much cuttlebone, calcium supplements, etc. that we offer our birds, if they do not receive Vitamin D3 either in their diet (supplement), from a proper artificial light source, or from natural UNFILTERED sunlight for several hours each day, your birds will STILL be deficient in Vitamin D3 and suffer related ailments.

Regards,
nan"

 

[claudzilla]

Oh my god, THANK YOU. That is incredibly helpful!!! And I'm so glad that the solution is something other than, "Go buy an overpriced bird lamp." Thank you thank you!