by John Courtney-Smith

John Courtney-Smith, a parrot and reptile enthusiast, has developed a great interest in specialist UV-lighting and the science behind the systems, working and advising at Arcadia, the lighting professionals. Here he offers us the benefit of his knowledge in this the first part of a three-part series.

I am a passionate bird keeper, birds fascinate and captivate me! I grew up with caged birds and they still play a very big part in my day-to-day life. I have a particular love for parrots and African finches. My first pet bird outside of the business environment was Charlie, a cock Yellow-collared macaw.

I am also a similarly passionate reptile keeper. I understand reptiles and the intricacies of how reptiles use natural sunlight in the wild. Specialist lighting for reptiles isn’t just lighting, but could be more accurately referred to as a ‘life-support system.’

Read more in the magazine…