Reptile Information

Select your materials:

I find it best to consider the terrarium as consisting of five parts: Front, Top, Bottom, Back and Sides. Lets look at each in turn:

Front

Typically, we will be building terrariums with clear fronts so that we can have a good view of our pets. Glass is the obvious choice, and it is often a good one. Acrylic glass (Plexiglas) can work, but it is much less scratch resistant, so it isn't suitable for pets with claws. Glass is heavy! A 4'x4' section of 1/4" glass is difficult to lift alone. When using glass, a few smaller sections are much easier to work with. Still, a large single window gives a very clean, finished look to the terrarium. The front could also be made of wire mesh. Although it lets heat out, and is not quite as attractive as glass, it is much less expensive.

Top

The top of your terrarium requires a lot of consideration. Typically you will have lamps to provide heat, and lights to provide Ultraviolet radiation on top. Glass is normally not a good choice, because it will block a large part of the UV light. Plexiglas is bad for the same reason, plus it will melt if you put a heat lamp over it. Wire mesh allows light and heat in, but a great deal of heat will escape through the top. Often, the best way is a combination. You can use wire mesh (1/4" mesh) over the areas where you will put the lights, and cover the balance with glass, wood or plastic. Make sure that you position the lights far enough from the top so that your pet cannot be burned by them.

Sides

The sides can be of anything! Glass gives an open, clean look. Wire mesh provides ventilation, and a place for climbing. Wood panels help to keep heat in, and are great for attaching shelves, or securing plants.

Back & Bottom

I prefer to have a solid, non transparent back. This gives a secure point for attaching everything else to, and the wires for the lights and heaters can be hidden behind. When using wood, use well finished panels. Chipboard or plywood will give splinters, get stained, and may warp by absorbing water. Melamine panels of the type used for shelving seem to work well, and you can often get them done in different colors.

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Need more information? Take a look at Terrarium and Cage Construction and Care
by Richard D. Bartlett , available from Amazon.com