One of the many joys of keeping
exotic reptiles in your home is
recreating a perfect habitat for your
pet. Whether you set up a miniature
rain forest, a desert, or woodland
habitat complete with moss-covered
vines, the key to your pet's best health lies in
your creativity and understanding of the
specific species you care for. Always read up
on your reptile before you purchase living
quarters, and please keep in mind these
essential points when considering habitat:
Accommodations
Ideal accommodations
combine creature comfort,
maintenance ease,
and an unobstructed
view. Take into account
the size that the reptile
will grow into as an adult
– will he always have
room to move and climb?
Will he be comfortable
and safe? His habitat
also must be secure
enough to contain him
when you are not
around. For some
excellent selections,
see our cages.
Substrate
The appropriate substrate is an essential part of reproducing
a natural habitat. In addition to enhancing
the appearance of your cage, substrate
also helps keep moisture, waste, and bacteria
away from your pet. Always look for
substrates that are easy to clean, good heat
conductors, non-abrasive, and designed to
meet the specific needs of your pet:
Desert Dwellers – Fine-grain sands for
snakes, lizards, tortoises, and turtles
include Zilla Ground English Walnut Shells, which
will not cause problems if ingested in small
quantities, and Calci-Sand which actually
gives your reptile the nutritional benefits
of added calcium.
Woodland Species – Glass lizards and
other forest-dwelling reptiles prefer substrates
that allow for shallow burrowing.
Rain Forest – Toads, frogs, salamanders,
and other moss-dwelling creatures accustomed
to damp environments will enjoy a
substrate such as Jungle Mix, which retains
much-needed moisture and humidity.
Heat & Light
When choosing the right lamps for heat
and light, take into account your pet's living
habits in the wild, such as what time of
day (or night) he is normally active. Many
reptiles need natural sunlight – or an
appropriate substitute – in order to metabolize
Vitamin D3. Also, temperature must
be carefully controlled, since cold-blooded
reptiles need heat lights or rocks
to keep them warm.
Remember, just like any other pet, your
exotic reptile depends on you. Providing
him with the most appropriate living
conditions will increase your chances of
having a happy and healthy pet for many
years to come.
| We Recommend |
Eco Earth
naturally absorbs and breaks down odors and waste. |
Zilla Fir and Sphagnum Moss Mix
is the perfect bedding choice for burrowing reptiles like lizards, snakes, turtles, tortoises, frogs, toads and arachnids. |
Lizard Litter
is less abrasive than sand and bark. |
Calci-Sand
clumps readily to waste material, drying it and preventing it from being spread throughout your reptile's enclosure. |
