Please print our Reptile Environmental checklist and complete it on a weekly basis to help ensure that your pet has the temperatures and humidity it needs to thrive.
Temperature and humidity are crucial factors for the health and well-being of reptiles because they play a significant role in regulating the reptiles’ physiological functions and overall behavior. Here’s why these factors are important:
Metabolism: Reptiles are ectothermic animals, which means they rely on external sources of heat to regulate their body temperature. The temperature of their environment directly affects their metabolic rate. If the temperature is too low, their metabolism slows down, leading to reduced activity, digestion, and overall health. On the other hand, excessively high temperatures can lead to overheating and stress.
Thermoregulation: Reptiles need a range of temperatures to thermoregulate effectively. They require a basking spot with a higher temperature to raise their body temperature and an area with a lower temperature for cooling off. Inadequate temperature gradients can lead to thermoregulatory issues, impacting their ability to digest food, move, and behave normally.
Digestion: Proper digestion is essential for reptile health. Reptiles rely on temperature to aid in digestion, as their enzymatic activity is temperature-dependent. Inadequate warmth can result in inefficient digestion, leading to malnutrition and digestive problems.
Hydration: Humidity is crucial for maintaining proper hydration in reptiles. Many reptiles absorb water through their skin, and a lack of humidity can lead to dehydration. In contrast, excessively low humidity can cause respiratory issues and shedding problems.
Skin shedding: Adequate humidity is necessary for healthy shedding in reptiles. If the environment is too dry, reptiles may struggle to shed their skin properly, potentially leading to retained shed, infections, or skin problems.
Behavioural well-being: Temperature and humidity affect the behaviour of reptiles. Inappropriate environmental conditions can lead to stress, reduced activity, and even aggression. Creating an environment that mimics their natural habitat is crucial for their mental and physical well-being.
In summary, maintaining appropriate temperature and humidity levels in captivity is essential for the health, behaviour, and overall well-being of reptiles. It’s crucial for reptile keepers to understand and provide the specific environmental conditions required for their particular species to ensure their reptiles thrive in captivity. For more information please see our care guides
Animal Name:
Species :
Temperatures required
- Basking Temperature (Under Lamp)………………………….°C
- Daytime Temperature (Warmest area):………………………°C
- Daytime Temperature (coolest area):…………………………°C
- Nighttime Temperature (Warmest area):…………………….°C
- Nighttime Temperature (Coolest area):………………………°C
- Humidity:…………………………………………………………………%
Date UV Light was fitted:……………………………………(replace after 12 months use)
