When Reptiles Get Too Hot

With a heat wave upon us, it is vital to ensure that any animal will not be effected. I heard a sad story last week about someone losing his reptiles because their enclosures were too warm. This made me sad because with the right equipment and proper care the loss could have been prevented. 

Temperature regulation in a heated enclosure is highly important and I can't recommend enough how important it is to use a thermostat. All reptile keepers should have one as it is a necessity and vital to the animal's well being. I use MicroClimate stats (B2 pulse stats) for my reptiles. This ensures my heat mats do not exceed the temperature that is required. As far as I am aware, mat stats can be used for bulbs. Do not use pulse stats as these can blow the bulb, although dimmer stats are more effective for bulbs. I recommend using a stat at all times.

• A mat stat is a thermostat that provides constant heat, although when reaching a certain point will turn off for a short period of time. They are the most common thermostat for first time owners and are not as expensive, however they are not as accurate.
• A pulse stat is a type of thermostat that provides bursts of heat when needed. They are more accurate than mat stats and are popular with racks or for heating multiple reptiles, assuming they need the same temperatures or thereabouts. 

B2 Microclimate

Microclimate Ministat

I would also recommend purchasing a digital thermometer and placing them inside the tank, one on the hot side and one on the cool side, although these are not always accurate. Alternatively if you are more fussy, invest in a temperature gun. These measure an exact spot and are more precise. 

Always look for signs that your reptiles are overheated. For example spending lots of time in the water bowl when not in shed, about to lay eggs or have mites. Signs of reptiles being over heated include, dehydration, skin abnormalities, lethargic, spending all their time in the cool side and soaking for long periods in the water bowl.

When temperatures reach 36°C is when you should turn off your heat source and allow it to cool down. Also always ensure that you have not placed your reptiles in direct sunlight as this will increase the heat. Always remember that when keeping reptiles, it's better to have them slightly too cold as reptiles can survive for longer when it is cooler. Too much heat is more dangerous and can kill a reptile within minutes.

If you find that the cool end of the enclosure is getting too hot, you may find that placing an electric fan beside the vents will help cool it down. You can also wedge the tank door open slightly but be warned this could lead to escapees! Furthermore you could lightly spray the enclosure though be aware this can raise humidity. In some cases, a bath might be more appropriate.


Click here for information on heating 

Click here for more information on thermostats