The list below is a step to step guide on setting up your reptile enclosure.
Research the enclosure requirements for you reptile
Find out what size cage your reptile needs. Its humidity, lighting and heating requirements. If you are going to keep a breeding pair or trio the size of the cage must increase.
Purchase the cage
Purchase the correct size cage. Decide whether to purchase a second hand cage or new cage. Decide on the type of cage such as glass or wooden display cage. Shop around for good prices but do not skimp on quality.
Purchase the supplies
Purchase the heating, lighting, substrate and heating accessories.
Install your heaters and lights
Fix a porcelain lamp socket to one side of the cage for your infrared light bulb, daylight basking lamp or ceramic heat emitter. Fix a porcelain lamp socket to the cage for the UVB bulb. Place heat pad on one side of the cage. Do all the electric wiring for the lights and heaters. Get someone who is good with DIY to do this for you, unless you are good at DIY yourself.
Add substrate and decorations
Add the correct type and amount of substrate. Add cage decorations such as rocks and pieces of wood. Make sure any logs ect are sterile and free of parasites.
So there you have it follow the above steps correctly and your reptile should have a great place to stay.
Timothy Zedi
Tim Zedi is a seasoned reptile enthusiast with over 25 years of experience in keeping and breeding a wide variety of reptiles. Tim was the former chairman of the West Rand Herpetological Association and volunteered at the Transvaal Snake Park.Tim has been instrumental in creating knowledge in the reptile community. He is a regular contributor to Practical Reptile Keeping magazine, where he shares his expertise and insights. Through his work, Tim has become a respected figure in the herpetology field, dedicated to educating others and promoting responsible reptile care.