What watt bulbs for BP's and kingsnakes?

Just wondering what watt light bulb (50,75,100, ect...) to use for a small new BP and california kingsnake? Or does it even matter as long as the temps are right? Also what kind of bulb, black bulb, red bulb, does it need UVB light???

First of all, if you can get your temps right without an overhead light, then you don't need to use one. If you need a boost in your temps even with an undertank heater or human heat pad under your enclosure, the wattage of the bulb would depend on the size of your tank and how much of a boost you need. Basically, it's a matter of trial and error. If you have a big tank and need a big boost in temps, then you'll need a higher wattage. If you have a small tank and need a small temp boost, then use a lower wattage. If it's somewhere in between . . . well you get the idea.

And no, they do not need UV lights. Red bulbs do just fine.

I use a 75 watt which keeps the tank about 3 degrees warmer than the house temperature in the middle of the tank, and about 5 or 6 degrees warmer on the warm side. It works fine unless you live in places that get really cold.

Set your tank up with a UTH, see what the temps are and if you need extra help add a red bulb (also provides great nighttime viewin). I believe your main source of heat should be belly heat and you should only supplement with overhead heat if needed. I have a UTH on the warm side, but my cool side temps get too low so I have a red bulb on the cool side. And be sure to set the UTH on a thermostat .

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