OTT-lite bulbs

sean · Post by **sean** » Thu Sep 11, 2008 7:41 pm

after a search of previous threads, I see that some of you have used OTT-Lite bulbs to provide full-spectrum lighting for your finches.
what has been your experience with them?
they are specifically for indoor plant use so I'm hesitant to use them to light my finches cage because i fear too much UVA/UVB radiation will be given off.
are they safe? there is no CRI rating.

Post by **Sally** » Fri Sep 12, 2008 12:00 am

I have used the OTT-lite bulbs. I have some of their 48" T12 bulbs, which were sold as plant lights. I got these some years ago when a store went out of business, intending to use them in one of those grow-light plant stands, but now they are used for my finches. I have double 4' shop lights, so I put one OTT-lite tube and one sunshine-type tube in each shop light. I have not had any ill effects from this.

I did call the OTT company and asked them about using these bulbs for finches, and the rep said that the plant light was the best one to use for finches. No, they don't have a CRI rating on the bulb, and the company never did answer my request for a CRI.

sean · Post by **sean** » Fri Sep 12, 2008 12:27 am

thanks sally. i am going to buy one of their lights ($8 from home depot) and screw it into a conventional lightstand i have next to the cage. i will post here to let everyone know how the results are. i hope my finches aren't harmed.