So I have started planning out the new tortoise table, and hopefully got someone lined up to buy the 4ft viv.

I was having a browse around www.kimbosreptileworld.co.uk as kindly suggested by blondesarah, however I am not 100% on what light fixtures I need. Could someone let me know if this is ok...

http://kimbosreptileworld.co.uk/clamp-lamp-p-34.html

with

http://kimbosreptileworld.co.uk/uvhe...lood-p-37.html

Is there anything else I need to buy for his heat/light source? I was also going to put a UV strip light along the side of my table, but I wasn't sure if the flood light would be sufficient? Or if it doesn't make much of a difference? I understand regular aquarium light fixtures would do the job, then just buy a 10.0 bulb with the same wattage as the fixtures? I intend to make his table 4ft long by 2ft wide and maybe about 10-15 inches high. From what I have read, the heat/uv flood lamp should be positioned 12" from the tortoises carapace, is that right?

Also, how often, when you use top soil and play sand, do you generally clean the tortoise out? At the moment I thoroughly clean him out once a week and spot clean when he does the loo, would that be ok when i put him on the soil/sand? or would it need to be more regular?

Finally, i had wee humphrey out last nite and he seemed to make a kinda clicking noise. His eyes seem bright and his nose doesnt seem runny, was thinking of taking him to get checked out at the vets?

Opinions and suggestions would really be appreciated!

Thanks
x

Hello if your getting the trex bulb you need the trex holder.
You do not need another strip as this bulb is heat and UVB in one.
Yes 12 inches from substrate
I spot clean my tortoises every day and then clean them out every 2-3 weeks depending on how messy they get their enclosure.

Can you expand on the clicking nose, was this when you picked him up?

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Hey, thanks for getting back to me

Are you able to suggest a light set up to use with my table? Its just it'll cost a lot of money and I want to make sure i'm getting the right thing!

It wasn't like an obvious clicking noise, but i only noticed it when I held him close. I had a wee flick through my books but couldn't see anything that would be the reason for this. When I bought him he had a lung infection and I'm terrified he is sick again.

I would be so grateful if anyone knows what this could be?

Thanks again

If you are worried take him to the vets. Normally its there jaws coming togther, like grinding your teeth. Keep an eye on nasial discharge.

I use the trex bulbs and they are brilliant, they last you up to 3 years and the one bulb is all you need.
Some people use a normal spot bulb for heat and then a UVB tube 8.0 or 10.0.

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I'm gonna see how he is when I get in from work and if he is still clicking I'll phone the vet and get him an appointment! He's still full of beans! Such a character!

Ok so ideally I would buy:
http://kimbosreptileworld.co.uk/dome...lver-p-36.html

to go with the flood lamp, mentioned on my earlier post?

I know this probably sounds a stupid question but does this light 'dangle'. Like, does it come with attachements or do you need to kinda work that one out for yourself? If so, how is the best way to attach it?

I really apologise for the masses of questions. Desperate to make him a fab house lol

thanks for taking the time to help me with this. I really appreciate it!

You need to set up a bracket or something to hang the dome reflector from, the bulb will need to be around 15" from the surface to achieve the correct temperature.

I prefer to use the dome reflectors with MVBs, they are made for the job and provide better air circulation around the bulb which prevents it overheating.

Clamp Lamps are OK, but you need to use the biggest size to get adequate air circulation, also they aren't very deep and don't provide as good protection for the bulb as the domes do.

If you check out poultry suppliers you can get similar holders for about half the price of the T-Rex one, they're just as good, have ceramic bulb holders and heat resistant wiring, and usually a length of chain to hang them by. The only downside IMO is that they don't look quite as nice!