Building a Terrarium With Animals

A terrarium can be an excellent addition to an apartment too small for a larger pet, a household with nature-oriented children or any home that appreciates smaller animals. It is important that you decide on the type of animals and plants you'd like to house before you begin building your terrarium, as this will determine the size, complexity and much of the contents. Animals and plants that require modulated temperature and/or humidity, for instance, will require a more complex terrarium.

Things You'll Need

  • Pre-cut glass, plastic or plexiglass, or pre-built fish tank-style container
  • Plastic, plexiglass or similar material for the base
  • Fine mesh or screen cover
  • Measuring tape (optional)
  • Caulking or epoxy-style glue (optional)
  • Electric tape (optional)
  • Space with adequate natural light, or sunlamp
  • Heating lamp (optional)
  • Miscellaneous terrarium contents
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Instructions

    • 1

      Find a stable surface on which to construct your frame. If you have a pre-built tank, skip this step. Porches, decks or other outdoor areas work well, due to the mess factor. Carefully use your caulking or glue to attach the sides of your terrarium to the base, and to one another, ensuring that the sides are properly sealed. Hold the sides in place for the drying period of your chosen sealant.

    • 2

      Clean your terrarium frame thoroughly. Glass or fiberglass dust, as well as any residue that may have come with the material, could be harmful to the terrarium's future inhabitants. While cleaning, examine the frame for any cracks in which animals could become stuck, or sharp surfaces on which they might injure themselves. After cleaning, be sure to thoroughly rinse out any cleaning agents, as these could harm your animals as well.

    • 3

      Attach your mesh or screen to the top of the terrarium. If you have a pre-made screen, skip this step. Measure and cut your screening material so that it matches the dimensions of the terrarium's top. Use your adhesive to affix three sides of the screening material to the top of the terrarium, making sure to leave an open-able flap on one side. Affix one or two pieces of electrical tape to the open-able flap so that you can close it when you need to.

    • 4

      Create the appropriate environmental conditions inside the terrarium. If you're recreating a desert environment, create a setting of sand and rocks; if you're recreating a temperate forest, use soil and green plants. In any case, make sure to include a pond or other water source. If your desired pets require modulated heat and humidity, you will need to set up additional equipment, such as a heat lamp. Place your terrarium in an area where it will receive ample natural light, or position it under a sun lamp.

    • 5

      Introduce your new pets to their new home!