Last Updated on by Mitch Rezman
Carrie F. writes:
I’ve had diamond doves and then later had lovebirds in the past.
I’ve been without birds for a while, but I’m now setting up a large double flight cage in preparation for getting 2 or 3 pairs of finches.
I have a hanging bird light fixture, but since this cage is so wide (about 5 feet wide), I need to hang 2 fixtures.
I can’t find another one like what I already have so I’m looking around at what’s available.
Obviously, my finches will not be out of the cage so they won’t be chewing on the fixtures.
Is there any reason I can’t use fixtures that aren’t made for birds?
And can I use daylight-led bulbs, or is there a full spectrum led bulb that you would recommend?
I really hate CFL bulbs because of the toxic mercury interior.
Thanks for your help!
Dear Carrie
You can use ANY regular lighting fixture for the bulbs.
Get creative.
Yes, two, even three bulbs spaced over the cage would be best.
The picture (above) shows three installed over our 3-foot wide cage because it is so deep, two wasn’t enough.
You can place them directly on the top of your cage if you like. We can’t because we cover it nightly.
These Economy bulbs work well for us. We don’t have a lot of choices available anymore due to the new regulations on bulbs.
The interior of CFLs does contain mercury but as you stated it’s in the interior.
Studies have shown LED light places budgies under stress because of their flicker fusion rate.
Full Spectrum Economy Daylight Bulb
You would look for Full Spectrum or Daylight Bulbs with a value of 100 watts (they will be 23-25 watts now).
How Pet Bird Keepers Get The Lighting Thing Wrong
Don’t be concerned about the UVs, they are not important.
It was originally assumed the UVs had to be high so the birds would get vitamin enhancement from the light, but it does not work that way for birds.
Their main benefit is to control hormonal behavior. If they need vitamins, add them to their food or water.
Kindest Regards,
Catherine
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