Savannah Monitors do not require light at night. In fact, it is best to provide them with a natural day and night cycle, which means turning off any lights during the nighttime hours. This mimics their natural habitat and allows them to maintain a healthy sleep schedule.
During the day, it is important to provide them with a thermal gradient ranging from 78° to 88° Fahrenheit. This means having a warm basking area where the temperature can reach up to 110° F, and a cooler area where the temperature is around 72° to 80° F. This allows the monitor to regulate its body temperature by moving between the different temperature zones.
To achieve the necessary temperatures, you can use Black Heat Infrared Ceramic Heat Emitters or incandescent lights, such as the Zoo Med Basking Spot Bulbs. These heating options provide a focused heat source that can be directed towards the basking area. It is important to place the heat source in a way that creates a temperature gradient within the enclosure.
When it comes to lighting at night, it is generally recommended to use low-level ambient lighting or no light at all. Savannah Monitors are crepuscular, which means they are most active during dawn and dusk. Providing complete darkness at night allows them to rest and maintain a natural day and night cycle.
However, it is worth mentioning that some keepers choose to provide a very low level of light during the nighttime hours. This can be achieved using a red or blue light bulb, as these colors do not disrupt their sleep patterns. The low-level lighting can be used to observe the monitor without disturbing its sleep or causing stress.
Ultimately, the decision to provide any light at night is up to the individual keeper and should be based on the specific needs and behavior of their Savannah Monitor. It is always best to observe and monitor the monitor closely to ensure it is thriving in its environment.