Why should keepers avoid using red heat bulbs when attempting to create a thermal gradient for L. flavimaculatum?

Reptiles can perceive red wavelengths, disturbing nocturnal animals

When setting up thermal gradients for nocturnal species like L. flavimaculatum, keepers are advised to avoid using red heat bulbs. The reason for this stems from current understanding of reptile vision; reptiles are capable of perceiving the red wavelengths emitted by these bulbs. For an animal that is naturally nocturnal, light exposure during its active resting period (nighttime) can cause significant disturbance and stress. Therefore, alternative heating methods that do not emit visible light, such as a ceramic heat emitter or an under-tank heater, are strongly recommended for providing necessary supplemental warmth while respecting the lizard's dark cycle.