Should You Turn Off Bearded Dragon Lights at Night?: 1 Minute to Better Care for Your Bearded Dragon

Bearded dragons are fascinating reptiles whose care requires careful attention to lighting. One of the most common questions new owners ask is whether they should turn off their bearded dragon’s lights at night. The answer is yes—bearded dragons need distinct day and night cycles to maintain healthy sleep patterns and overall well-being. Like many diurnal animals, they are active during the day and rest at night, and constant artificial lighting can disrupt their natural behaviors, cause stress, and affect their health.

Tips 1:

From a designer’s perspective, creating an enclosure that mimics nature involves thoughtful consideration of lighting sources and placement. To support your bearded dragon’s natural rhythm, install automated timers for both heat and UVB lamps. Timers not only protect your pet’s health but also streamline your daily care routine, allowing your lights to shut off and turn on automatically—just as the sun would rise and set in their native habitat. And if you’re planning a full terrarium redesign, considering lighting layout and intensity should be integral to your overall home designer approach.

FAQ

Q: Should I leave any lights on for my bearded dragon at night?

A: No, bearded dragons need darkness at night to rest. Only use very low-level, specialized night lights if necessary for observation, and avoid regular bulbs.

Q: How long should bearded dragon lights be on during the day?

A: Aim for 10–12 hours of daylight; this helps regulate their biological clock and supports healthy metabolism.

Q: Can I use a heat mat instead of a night light?

A: Heat mats can help with nighttime warmth, but avoid using bright or colored bulbs. Use only under-tank heating methods designed for reptiles.

Q: What kind of bulb is best for my bearded dragon’s tank?

A: Use a UVB bulb during the day along with a basking lamp. Choose bulbs specifically designed for reptiles to ensure proper light spectrum and safety.

Q: Will turning off the lights at night make my bearded dragon cold?

A: If room temperature drops too low (below 65°F/18°C), you can use a ceramic heat emitter that provides warmth without emitting light.