Questions About Vivariums

This article is designed to look at some of the common questions asked about vivariums and wooden vivariums.

What are the important characteristics to look for when buying a vivarium? The actual requirements for a vivarium will vary depending on the species of reptile you are buying. Larger reptiles will naturally need a longer vivarium but, in addition to this some species will like to climb and will require a taller vivarium whilst others will prefer to stay on the ground.

• Number of vents - for ventilation, at least 2 vents are recommended to keep a steady flow of air through the vivarium
• Thickness of the glass - Very thin glass carries the risk of breaking when you are cleaning it which can result in an injury.
• Length/Height/Size - smaller or younger reptiles will be better suited to smaller vivariums than larger species. As a rule of thumb as big as you can afford is the best approach. This is especially important when you consider your reptile will grow. Try to find out how big they are likely to get and make sure there is plenty of room.
• Heating - Probably the most important factor for your reptile's health. Make sure you have the right wattage bulb and the correct equipment to measure the temperature inside the vivarium and find out the optimal temperature for your reptile's species.

Is there any benefit of wooden over glass vivariums? Yes, putting the visual aspects aside, Wooden Vivariums are less prone to cracking and stronger than glass vivariums. In addition to this, they also retain heat more effectively and reflect light much better than glass vivariums. The downside is that because several sides are covered in wood, it's not as easy to watch your reptile.

Is there any benefit in having a vivarium cabinet? Yes cabinets are very useful for storing your reptile accessories like bulbs, food, treats etc. They are also very good for raising the height of your vivarium and are usually designed to attach directly onto the vivarium to give better stability.

Do I need a tall vivarium? Some vivariums, for example the Vivexotic VX vivariums are designed to be taller which is important for climbing reptile species. With all vivariums, the most important consideration is the habits of the reptile you want to keep. Research the habits and traits to ensure that the vivarium you are purchasing is suitable for the reptile you want.