Full Spectrum Lighting

[z24wkit]

I just adopted a TAG and he does not have a full spectrum light
I have many reptiles so I am used spending lots on full spectrum bulbs and replacing yealry for bi-yearly.
But it seems like the ones for birds are different. What should i be trying to get for my bird?
Also if I bought the tube lights can i use fixtures from Home Depot or Lowes or are they special fixtures I have to buy light for a reptile.?
Thanks

[Sally]

I have a feather brite full spectrum light l bought from Windy City Parrot, online. I have read to only use it for a couple of hours a day for a small bird.

[Captain Jack]

You know, I have researched this question and am still confused. I do believe florescent light are bad for a bird’s eye. The frequency at which the gases ionize can cause a strobe light effect on the bird’s eye. But that’s just my opinion I formed from the research I’ve done, I may be wrong.

[Cindy215]

Yes don't use the reptile bulbs they are different. Will damage the eyes. You want cri over 92 and lumens 5000 if you're going to use them. For the tubes most people like the Phillips and Home Depot ONLINE shop light with electronic ballast. Two tubes together. No dimmers.

I put mine 3-4 feet away and not for long at that close range. My birds hide from the compact bulb therefore I presume it bothers them and stopped using it. Both Parrotlets hide under their toys if they are under a compact bulb so it bothered me. They never do that at any other time. I had them in my chandelier but removed them.

I hate winter for that reason especially. Like Captain Jack I have concerns and limit the artificial lighting like Sally said, too.

I like these two sources and Patrick Thrush seems to be the most published person on it. The Birds n Way article is very good too.

BUT all my birds have always acted differently in full spectrum versus the dim natural light of winter, more lively and chipper (lol. "chipper")...I attribute it to seeing the extra spectrum.


http://users.mis.net/~pthrush/lighting/index2.html
http://www.birdsnways.com/wisdom/ww42ev.htm

[Captain Jack]

If you do use fluorescent tube lights, DO NOT use old, low cost magnetic ballasts. They may cost more, but if you decide to use fluorescent tube lights USE a high frequency electronic ballasts 20,000 Hz or higher. This will help eliminate the strobe effect fluorescent tube lights have on a birds eye.

[Sally]

My bulb is not florescent, or not the kind that hurts the bird. I asked about that. Some lighting is the long bulbs, I don't have that. I agree,the light does make the CHIPPER, ha! Between the light and Chipper's new cage, she is a VERY happy, less nippy gal!!!