The first thing that comes to mind when it comes to warming bulbs, are reptiles. You’ll be surprised to learn that birds need special lighting as well. It’s easy to understand that most organisms need regular UVA light, which is the normal sunlight that you get for Vitamin D synthesis in your skin. Many people are unaware that animals, reptiles and birds in particular, need UVB rays for optimal health. While birds need UVA rays to be able to see, fly around, find food, look for a potential mate and be aware of their surroundings, UVB is also essential. UVB is needed for vitamin D3 synthesis.

Vitamin D3 is an important nutrient that is synthesized naturally in direct contact with sunlight. A bird can be OK with the UVA, which is a visible light to get around. However, if a bird is indoors and doesn’t get much sun, it’s the supply of UVB that is very limited. As a result, its Vitamin D3 synthesis is lower and this might get the bird in trouble because it might impact its health by not properly maintaining its bones, especially if it’s producing eggs. Vitamin D3 is needed for proper calcium metabolism in the bird’s system. Many bird owners compensate for their bird’s lower D3 synthesis by buying bird lamps to provide UVB rays.

One good lamp to consider is Zoo Med Aviansun 5.0 UVB Compact Fluorescent Bulb from Pet Store. This bulb fits into a regular fluorescent socket and gives off safe dosage of UVB and UVA rays for your bird. Based on 30 yrs of reptile and avian health product experience, the Zoo Med Aviansun 5.0 UVB Compact Fluorescent Bulb should be more than enough to help maintain and promote your bird’s health indoors.