new baby setup!

[amygeee]

i recently bought a bearded dragon and it's about 5-6 inches in length.
im keeping her in a bout a 20 gallon tank (just until my next paycheck!!)
with:

calcium based sand substrate
a 100 watt powersun mercury vapor UVB lamp (provides uva, uvb, light, and heat)
a small like, bridge thingy that provides shade (she sleeps in there. )
a peice of driftwood that lifts up right under the lightbulb for basking
&& a shallow waterbowl (no drip system)

here is a picture:

any comments, questions, suggestions...?

 

[TheWolfmanTom]

Ditch the sand
and hello again...lol

 

[renich]

I agree that sand is not good for babies. I've used it in the past, but not until Bernard reached his 1 year birthday.

What are your temps? Your hot side should be around 105-110F and your cool side should be about 85F. These are averages. I'm concerned your bulb is too powerful for that size tank.

Also, what are you using to measure your temp?

 

[amygeee]

i explained my decision to be hesitant about letting sand go in the general discussion area,
but you guys are beginning to convince me.
i am scared that my bulb is too hot now that you mentioned that, and i dont know what i should do.. hang it up maybe?
i have a thermometer but its broken and im on my way to the store to buy one this morning.

thanks for your help!

 

[renich]

I replied with my thoughts on sand in the general discussion board.

glad to hear you are getting a new thermometer. Let us know what the temps are.