Just to elaborate (I hope you don't mind), it's my understanding that the richest source of D3 is the liver of prey items which is why it's important to offer whole prey on a regular basis rather than "bits" and also why UV is generally not considered necessary.Many snakes do not require UV to remain relatively healthy in captivity. It could be argued that UV assists in normal activity and appetite stimulation and may assist with stimulating the production of Vitamin D3, which assists in the proper development of skeletal features and calcium absorption. It may well be benificial for snakes, including nocturnal species whom almost certainly bask in full spectrum light, but it certainly will do no harm. To answer your question, in my opinion, it's not a requirement for your snake to survive, but it may assist your snake to thrive.
Regards
Wing_Nut
Just to elaborate (I hope you don't mind), it's my understanding that the richest source of D3 is the liver of prey items which is why it's important to offer whole prey on a regular basis rather than "bits" and also why UV is generally not considered necessary.
UV is perhaps not nesessary, but it can benefit the overall well being of captive animals in the long term. In the end, the decision remains with the keeper and what works best for them and there animals.
Regards
Wing_Nut
I will not let any of my animals go without UV
After losing 2 pythons last year to what the vet felt could be long term UV related problems I will not let any of my animals go without UV from now on....as above, it might not be necessary but it sure doesnt hurt to have it.
I have noticed more movement from my pythons since putting UV lights in the cages and they almost seem more vibrant in colouring.
If put on timers it also helps in giving them proper day/night time cycles.
Bill
The biggest and most productive reptile breeding facilities in the world never provide UV for snakes, and continue to breed exceedingly healthy animals through many generations without difficulty. Simply put, lack of UV will not harm your snakes in any way, but if it makes you feel you are doing a better job of looking after your animals, it can do no harm... although there are stories coming out about possible eye damage related to the provision of UV in reptile enclosures.
Jamie
I am led to believe there is currently research underway into bone density of captive snakes kept with and without UV, and some of the findings to date are interesting to say the least.
Furthermore, exposure to UV will often lead to increased activity levels in a captive environment which can help address other potential health issues. Wing_Nut
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