FAQ: Enclosures for reptiles

A tropical terrarium needs a moisture-holding substrate, live or artificial plants, a water bowl or pool, and regular misting. Ventilation matters too, so humidity does not stagnate and mould does not form.

A hand sprayer is enough for most species, but for tropical species, especially chameleons, an automatic misting system on a timer is convenient. It keeps humidity steady and provides droplets that some reptiles drink from.

Substrate is chosen by where the species comes from: a dry sand and soil mix for desert species, moisture-holding coconut fibre, bark or soil for tropical ones. It should be safe, easy to clean and help keep the right humidity.

Pure fine sand is criticised because reptiles can swallow it with food, and it is dusty and does not hold its shape. For desert species a sand and soil mix is more often recommended, as it is firmer and closer to the natural habitat.

Calcium sand used to be marketed as safe if swallowed, but it is now often avoided because it can clump in the gut and encourage excess calcium intake. A natural sand and soil mix or another suitable substrate is a safer choice.

Coconut fibre holds moisture well, is soft and good for digging, so it is often used for tropical species, snakes and tortoises. It is sold in compressed bricks that must be soaked in water before use.

Put the brick in a large container and pour warm water over it; within minutes it swells to several times its size. Break up the swollen fibre and, if it is too wet, squeeze it out or let it dry to the right moisture.

Pine or other tree bark holds moisture well and looks natural, so it is often used for snakes such as ball pythons and for tropical lizards. Choose bark prepared for terrariums, without dust or sharp edges.

Cedar shavings must not be used for reptiles, as their aromatic compounds can irritate the airways. Untreated aromatic pine shavings are also often avoided, and aspen shavings or specially prepared bark are a safer choice.

Aspen shavings are dry, light and let snakes burrow and keep tunnels intact, so they suit species that like dry conditions, such as corn or hognose snakes. They go mouldy quickly in damp conditions, so they are unsuitable for tropical species.

Paper is hygienic, inexpensive and easy to replace, so it is often used for quarantine, during treatment or for juveniles. It is less suitable for permanent housing, as it does not let the reptile dig and does not hold humidity.

Tiles or slate slabs are easy to clean and store heat well, so they are often used for desert lizards. They do not allow digging, though, so many keepers combine tiles with an area suitable for digging.

Reptile carpets are easy to remove and wash, but their fibres can snag claws or teeth, and between washes they collect bacteria. If you use one, keep a spare, wash it regularly and check for frayed threads.

Sphagnum and other mosses hold moisture well, so they go into humid hides, on top of the substrate in tropical terrariums or into egg-laying boxes. They help with shedding and keep a humid microclimate.

Ordinary garden soil may contain fertilisers, pesticides, sharp particles or parasites, so it is not recommended. For terrariums choose a dedicated soil or soil without fertilisers and additives.

Small pebbles or gravel are dangerous because reptiles can swallow them along with food. They are used only as a drainage layer under other substrate in bioactive terrariums, where the animal cannot reach them.

Yes, mixes often match the natural habitat best, for example soil, sand and coconut fibre, or soil and bark. A mix holds its shape and moisture better and lets the reptile dig.

A few centimetres are enough for most species, but burrowers such as hognose snakes, skinks or tortoises need deeper substrate. In bioactive terrariums the substrate is usually deeper so microorganisms and the clean-up crew can survive.

Bearded dragons are often kept on a dry sand and soil mix, tiles or a combination of both. The substrate should be dry, low-dust and firm enough for the dragon to run and dig.

Leopard geckos do well on a soil and sand mix, tiles or slate, and juveniles are often kept on paper. Moss or damp coconut fibre is used in the humid hide to make shedding easier.