Setting up a terrarium properly is one of the essential things you can do to care for a reptile. An improper habitat can cause serious side effects for your reptile, including death. Here are seven must-buy supplies for a reptile terrarium.
Terrarium
Of course, no terrarium is done without the actual enclosure. However, selecting a terrarium that’s the right shape and size is vital. There are two common terrarium shapes: tall and long. Generally, land-dwelling reptiles feel most at home in longer terrariums because they deliver more surface area to roam, whereas reptiles that want to climb benefit most from taller enclosures.
Lighting
Most reptile habitats will need two light bulbs: a bulb specifically designed to create heat and a bulb to provide visual/ultraviolet light. We concentrate on UVA (visual) and UVB light (vitamin production) for reptiles. Diurnal reptiles, which are active during the day, need UVB light to produce vitamin D and absorb calcium. Nocturnal reptiles, which are active mainly at night, likely do not need as much UV light, if any, provided they are supplied with a dietary source of vitamin D.
Heating Lamps
Some reptiles have exceptional needs when it comes to heating and lighting. Therefore, buying the right heat lamp and lighting for your new pet is essential, and depending on the reptile in question, some can get their light and heat from the same source. Others, meanwhile, need a separate heat tape or heat pad, which is usually made of foil strips wrapped in durable plastic film. If you decide to use heat tape, a thermostat or a rheostat must regulate the temperature. This will prolong the product’s life and prevent any accidental burns.
Thermometer
While many pet reptiles need more heat than your home might provide, they can be exposed to excessive heat. To help constrain the danger that too-hot temps may pose, place two thermometers in your pet’s habitat, one beneath the heat lamp—the hottest end of the habitat—and one at the other end.
Hygrometer
Foggers and misters help keep proper humidity in tropical terrariums.
Bedding/Substrate
Tropical terrarium substrates include reptile soil, reptile bark, coconut husk, and moss. Desert terrarium substrates include specially developed sands and reptile carpets.
Décor
Many reptiles, such as lizards and snakes, need hiding places to escape and release stress. Some decor can be sprayed with water to assist in humidifying the terrarium.
Choosing for “the best” or “the right” reptile store can be tough considering the online options, information, and variety, especially if you’re someone undecided, hesitant or full of doubts. I recommend to you: to be knowledgeable, educate yourself through brief research and find the right reptile store before buying terrarium supplies.
