ABSTRACT

A thermal environment that mimics the animal's natural environment is one of the most important factor in keeping reptiles healthy in captivity. Reptiles regulate their body temperatures with external environmental heat sources, behavioral actions, and some internal metabolic heat production. Most reptiles must reach their preferred body temperature (PBT) at some point during the day for optimal enzyme and immune system function, digestion and normal behavior to occur. Using digital thermography, a visual assessment of the thermal environment can be made. This study used thermal imaging to assess five captive reptile thermal environments.