Reptile Housing

Room for all to pat

Reptiles make excellent pets. However, it's wise to take a moment and really consider what kind of Herp you want, and how you will care for it.

Like all pets reptiles need consistent care and attention to thrive and do well. The bare minimum requirements are:

• Suitable housing [including temperature control]
• Food
• Water
• Lighting
• Hides
• Substrates
• Decoration

Snake Cages

There are a variety of cages and terrariums on the market ranging in price from under $100,00 to over $5000,00 and what you choose will no doubt depend on your budget. However, keep in mind the habits and needs of the animal you are buying. A tall cage with little floor space is not ideal for the likes of a blue tongue but would be perfect for some of our more aborial snakes and lizards.

Thermostats

Being ectothermic reptiles usually require some form of artificial heating to keep them well and happy. This can be achieved through lamps, heat rocks or heat mats. Whichever you choose it's important that you couple them with a thermostat to regulate the temperature and prevent over heating your charge.

Water Dish

All reptiles require water, best provided in a sturdy bowl and changed at least once every three days [immediately if fouled].

Pre-packaged food

Generally reptile specialists and pet stores will be able to supply you with the right food for your reptile. You might consider supplements and/or variety just to keep things interesting. Wild caught food is not recommended due to the risk of parasites. Also live feeding of Rats or Mice to snakes can be fraught with danger as many a keeper has found to their horror. Rats in particular will put up a fight and the risk of damage to your snake shouldn't be underestimated.

Commercial Hide

Most reptiles like a bit of privacy. You don't have to spend a lot of money to provide it either. Old flower pots etc make excellent hides. Just remember that as your animal grows so should it's hide and cleanliness is always paramount.

Substrate

There are a plethora of commercial substrates available to reptile keepers however, if you choose to risk using collected substrates you should ensure it is thoroughly clean and is not easily ingested along with your animals food.



One of the best options for a substrate is the humble newspaper, it may not look 'natural' but it's cheap, easy to change and plentiful.

Plastic Plants

How you choose to decorate your reptile cage is completely up to you, but it pays to remember that your animal will often find new and inventive ways of destroying your carefully constructed habitat. With this in mind, ensure that heavy branches are sturdy and that nothing can fall on your animal. Also remember to keep all light fittings covered to prevent burns/electrocution.



You should also remember that your reptile will need moderately rough edges to aid when shedding but these should not be too plentiful or sharp.

This by no means an extensive list and you should search for the relevant care sheets for your particular Herp on the Internet