Instructions
Select nonporous stones that are relatively smooth and have flat surfaces. Avoid sharp corners and overly rounded stones. Apply several drops of plain vinegar to test the stones for limestone content; if the vinegar fizzes on contact with the stone, then discard it.
Use a stiff brush to remove any dirt, debris or organic material on the stones. Put a stone in a pot, fill it with water and then heat it at a low boil for 30 minutes. Put the stone in direct sunlight and allow it to fully dry before proceeding.
Use an aquarium-safe silicone adhesive to glue the treated rocks together into a cave. Make sure the cave is large enough to the lizards that will use it. Allow the adhesive at least three days to fully dry and cure before proceeding.
Move any lizards to another enclosure while you place the cave. Select a location for the cave that is not directly exposed to sunlight or any heat lamps that are being used. Place the cave in a corner, if possible, to reduce the chances of it tipping over. Return any lizards to the enclosure.
How to Build a Cave With Rocks for Lizards
Lizards, like all endothermic animals, are not capable of regulating their own body temperature through their metabolism; they must use their environment to balance their internal temperatures. Not only do they require sunlight or other heat sources to warm themselves, but they also require shaded areas, such as caves, to lower their body temperature. Caves also serve as shelters and can make a lizard feel more at ease in a closed environment such as a terrarium. An artificial cave must be constructed with clean and sterilized rocks and secured by lizard-safe adhesives.