Introduction to Reptile Housing

Housing Size

Selecting the correct size vivarium for a reptile or amphibian requires at least a basic understanding of the natural history of the species. If it is terrestrial like a Leopard Gecko, then cage height will not be so critical, If it is arboreal, Like most other geckos (e.g. Crested Gecko), then cage height will be critical. Similarly for aquatic species, water depth will be more critical than cage height.

Aquatic Vivariums

The depth of water should allow aquatic turtles to reach the surface to breath whilst standing on the bottom they should not have to swim to the surface to breath. The land area for an aquatic species should be in proportion to its use of this area, usually no more than one third. Some species, such as most Mud, Mask and Snapping turtles rarely venture on to land, except females wishing to lay their eggs, and so they can be kept in a totally aquatic environment.

Vivarium Overview

Taller and wider cages allow for more adventurous and visually exciting decoration. Smaller burrowing species may need a taller cage to accommodate a much deeper layer of substrate to allow them to dig. Larger burrowing species, such as Ball Pythons, may be better confined to a small, low cage to simulate the confined space that they spend most of their lives in, but being taken out regularly for supervised exercise.

Minimum cage length can be calculated for the majority of captive snakes, which are not highly active, by choosing a cage that's combined width and length is at least two thirds of the length of the snake. Cage height is not critical for most snakes unless they are truly arboreal. The cage for any arboreal reptile or amphibian species is best located above eye level in a room to provide a feeling of additional security so important to these species. Highly active snakes, such as small Garter Snakes, ideally need a cage which is at least as long as they are measured diagonally along the base.

Large Vivariums

Highly active large lizards such as Water Dragons, Iguanas and Basilisks, need as large a cage as you can possibly provide. Less active, though equally large species, such as adult Bearded Dragons can be housed individually, or in compatible pairs in cages of 122cm long and 38cm or more wide, provided they are tall enough to allow them to bask at an angle of 45 degrees, and that they are taken out regularly for exercise.

Ventilation

Good ventilation is particularly important for lizards, especially chameleons which need the most. Reptiles and amphibians which are prone to rub their noses do so because they are too host, poorly ventilated, or because they do not feel secure. Check that the cage size is large enough, that it is not overheated and that hide boxes are provided both in the cooler and hotter parts of the cage.

Positioning

The positioning of a vivarium within a room should take into consideration excessive heat, cold and vibration, all of which will be detrimental to your reptile or amphibian. Vivariums positioned in a window, where they get the full sun will rapidly over heat, killing the occupants quickly. Positions located near electrical equipment such as televisions and music centres may cause vibrations which do not allow the inmate time to rest or settle, leading to stress and disease.