Reptiles and air temperature is an important topic for any herp owner. Reptiles are not able to regulate their own body temperature and rely on outside heat sources for this. Therefore, having the correct air temperature for your reptile is important to his well-being. The exact temperature range for your pet will depend on his species, but most reptiles usually require an air temperature in the 70-85F degree range. Always find out the ideal temperature range for your particular reptile. Animals that are indigenous to the desert for instance, often require higher air temperatures than those native to more temperate zones. Seasonal changes and even times of day can have an effect on the optimal conditions with regards to reptiles and air temperature.

The relationship between reptiles and air temperature extends to the observable level of activity of your reptile. When the air temperature is ideal, you will notice considerably more activity from your reptile than when it is too cold or too hot. Since reptiles are cold-blooded, they will raise their body temperature to match rising air temperatures, and lower their body temperature in response to colder air. If the air temperature becomes too cold or too hot, some reptiles will even hibernate until the air temperature is more suited to them.

One of the best ways to strike the right balance with reptiles and air temperature is to be sure your reptile’s home includes a range of temperatures. There should be a cool spot that remains at the lower end of the temperature range as well as a basking area that warms a section to the high end of the range. Your reptile should have free movement from one end of the spectrum to the other, and everywhere in between. You may find that, after observing your reptile for a while, he develops a particular pattern. Some reptiles will remain in one “temperature zone” during particular parts of the day, moving to a warmer or cooler spot around the same time each day. Once you begin to notice such a pattern, you may wish to increase or decrease the amount of area in a particular temperature zone in your reptile’s habitat, based on the amount of time your herp normally spends there.

The issue of reptiles and air temperature can be a delicate balance. By first establishing the ideal temperature range for your species, you can determine a starting point for the temperatures in your reptile’s habitat. The next step is to create an environment in which your reptile has his choice of areas with temperatures throughout this range.

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