Full Spectrum Experts Wanted

[jimpierce7]

reptile lights are too strong is what I've been told as well.

[GizmoAndGadgetsDad]

Originally Posted by jimpierce7

reptile lights are too strong is what I've been told as well.

To strong as in the radiation?

[tielfan]

It's my understanding that reptile lights are a big no-no for birds, although I don't know the reason why. There are a couple of good articles on birds and full spectrum lighting at Using Full Spectrum Lighting and The Ultraviolet Myth

The upshot is that they can be dangerous when used improperly and that your bird can get all the vitamin D it needs from dietary sources. I have a full spectrum light myself (Feather Brite) but I only use it on cloudy days, which don't happen very often around here. My birds are not outdoor birds but they stay in a room with big windows so they're used to a lot of light. This is not UVB light since the glass filters it out, but I feel good about their diet and I prefer to not use the full spectrum light a whole lot.

[Sally]

I would only use a light for birds. I have a Feather Brite lamp on the cage top. I turn it on for a couple hours, then Chipper comes out of the cage for a lot of the day. She goes in and out and flies around.

I do take her outside, in a little cage.

[FeathersNFur8]

SpectraBird lighting has been one of the best purchases I've ever made! The difference it's made for my birds have been remarkable.

SpectraBird Linear Fluorescent Tubes

[hollmer]

I don't know how they affect birds, but I got a full spectrum florescent at Lowes for my reading light and The difference between the light from this bulb compared to a regular floruscent or regular bulb is hugh, I use to get pretty bad headaches reading in the evening using a lamp, the full spectrum light is similar to daylight. I don't know if these bulbs would have any effects for Birds but I definately notice the difference. I think it was a GE brand florescent.