How to Start a Reptile Tank
Before deciding on bringing home a new reptile, several considerations must be taken, along with many preparations to ensure that your snake, lizard or turtle is introduced to a safe and adequate enclosure. For example, a common Green Anole should need nothing bigger than a 10 gallon tank, while a larger adult Ball Python would require at least a 40 gallon tank. It's crucial that you refer to your local pet store employee to find the best materials for your pet.
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Things You'll Need
- Tank
- Substrate
- Heat lamp
- Basking spotlight bulb
- Water bowl/dish
- Screen top
- Various cage furniture/décor
Instructions
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Setting Up Your Tank
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1
Place the tank in an area that receives suitable sunlight. Natural UVs are important to many reptiles.
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2
Take your substrate and line the bottom of the tank with it. If using bark, sand or gravel of any sort, make sure the layer is about 3/4 inch thick.
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3
Place any decor in the tank in accordance with your preferences.
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4
Place the filled dish/bowl of water at one end of the tank, close to the wall.
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5
Place screen top over tank securely. Putting a heavy object atop the screen top will help secure it down and prevent potential escapes.
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6
Screw the basking bulb into the heat lamp, making certain the lamp is not plugged in.
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7
Place the lamp on the screen top on the side opposite the water dish and plug the lamp in.
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Tips & Warnings
If you do not like placing a heavy object atop the screen top, special clips can be purchased that clamp the screens in place. A thermometer is recommended for keeping track of your tank's temperature, which, for most reptiles, should generally hover around 85 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. At night, turn the heat lamp off to allow your pet's body to cool. It is recommended that you use a secondary heat source, like a heat rock or pad, so that your reptile does not become too cold at night.
Reptiles are one of the most varying pets available. Each one requires a different amount of care and different types of materials. For example, desert reptiles will prefer sand while tropical reptiles will prefer bark or soil. Research further before gathering the necessary materials, and remember, all reptiles, even the hardiest ones, are fragile and require a great deal of attention and care.
