Reptiles in particular benefit from exposure to UVA for their eyesight and UVB for healthy metabolism, specifically vitamin D synthesis and calcium metabolism. UVC destroys DNA and is blocked by Earth’s atmosphere, but nearly all animals on the planet have evolved to depend on the other two wavelengths.

There are three types of ultraviolet radiation produced by the sun: UVA, UVB, and UVC. This is not unusual - many nocturnal species have been observed basking, especially in the morning. To simulate the change of the seasons, reduce the amount of light to 12 hours during winter.ĭaytime light is also nice for viewing occasionally leopard geckos will come out during the day to bask. According to the UV Tool by Frances Baines, light should be provided for 14 hours/day during the summer, which simulates their optimal photoperiod.

In fact, having a light on in the tank helps regulate their day/night cycle, which is good for their mental health and stimulates appetite. While their eyes evolved for low light conditions, and they tend to be much more active during the night than during the day, this does not mean that they do not need lighting as part of their enclosure setup. Leopard geckos are crepuscular, which means that they most active at dawn/dusk. There is a common myth that because leopard geckos are “nocturnal,” they don’t need any light at all to see or function, and providing light will burn their eyes.

Hides for leopard geckos