How to Make a Lizard Tank

Before creating a habitat for your lizard, learn a few facts about the lizard you plan to buy. First, research how large your lizard will get so that you buy a tank big enough to accommodate its growth. Determine whether your lizard is diurnal or nocturnal and whether or not it likes light and heat in both the day and night or only during the day. A knowledgeable staff person at the pet store where you purchase your lizard should help you answer these questions.

Things You'll Need

  • Aquarium
  • Tight-fitting screen lid
  • Heating pad
  • Fluorescent lamp
  • Sand, small aquarium gravel or plastic turf mat
  • Hide box, cave or log
  • Stick or log for basking
  • Water dish
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Instructions

    • 1

      Select the appropriate tank for your lizard, making sure not to choose one that is too small. A single gecko might only need a 10-gallon tank, but a bearded dragon would need one much larger since it can grow up to 2 feet long.

    • 2

      Place the heating pad in a corner on the bottom of the tank and cover it with sand, small gravel or a plastic turf mat.

    • 3

      Place the hide box, cave or log in the opposite corner of the tank from the heating pad so your lizard has a place to cool itself in the shade. Place the water dish nearby, and find an attractive place to situate the basking stick or log.

    • 4

      Place the screen lid on top and put the fluorescent lamp above the lid.