How to Create a Reptile Terrarium

When setting up a terrarium̵2;also referred to as a vivarium̵2;for a reptile, it is important that you do your research. Reptiles are cold blooded animals that gain heat from their external environment. If you don̵7;t have adequate lighting or heat structures inside your terrarium for your reptile, he might not survive. Before you start creating your reptile terrarium make sure you find out exactly what your specific reptile needs to stay alive and healthy.

Things You'll Need

  • Aquarium
  • Heat bulb or heating pad
  • Heat guard
  • Thermostat
  • Lighting
  • Substrates
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Instructions

    • 1

      Select an appropriate size aquarium for your reptile. The aquarium should come equipped with a secure lid so that your reptile will never escape from the tank. If you are purchasing a reptile such as a snake that will grow over time, purchase a small or medium-size tank̵2;you can always upgrade to a larger tank as your reptile grows.

    • 2

      Place a heat bulb inside the terrarium to provide your reptile with heat. You can also install a heating pad or rock to serve the same purpose. Reptiles like lizards and snakes love to bask under the warmth of a heat light and this is necessary to their survival. If you do place any heated objects in the terrarium, make sure they are covered by a heat guard.

    • 3

      Install a thermostat inside the tank, directly underneath the bulb. Depending on the type of light in your terrarium, you will either have a thermostat sensor or probe. This crucial piece of equipment allows you to make sure the tank is set at the appropriate temperature to keep your reptile happy.

    • 4

      Install the lighting. Different types of reptiles require different types of lighting. Forest dwellers such as geckos, iguanas or chameleons require UVB lighting, whereas snakes, frogs and nocturnal reptiles do not need UVB lights.

    • 5

      Add substrates to the tank that are native to where the reptile comes from. You are trying to create a life-like atmosphere for your reptile, so decorate the tank with plants and other natural materials that would be found in their native habitat. Substrates could include sand, moss or other natural materials. Decorate the aquarium with other natural decorations such as logs for climbing and rocks for hiding.