amphibian species. Glass
enclosures are easy to
clean and many are now
available with hinged, front-
opening doors, which
removes the hassle of
cleaning substrate from the
tracks of sliding doors.
Many glass enclosures
have waterproof bases,
making them ideal for
semi-aquatic and bioactive
set ups. One limitation of
glass enclosures is that
they don’t retain heat as
efficiently as timber
alternatives. However, if
appropriate heat sources
are used and set up effec-
tively, glass enclosures can
be successfully heated all
year round.
Plastic.
Plastic enclosures are a great housing option for
some very small species, or for hatchlings. They
provide a compact environment allowing for a young
animal to feel secure while it is becoming estab-
lished or being raised. There are limitations to
heating a plastic enclosure, and generally
only heat mats or heat cords run through a
thermostat are safe options to avoid
overheating and potentially harming your
reptile. There are some specialist enclo-
sures and larger units manufactured from
plastic, PVC and even fibreglass, however
these are not readily available in Australia.
Aviaries.
Aviaries can be used to house various
species outdoors, including larger
monitors, pythons, dragons and large
skinks. It is crucial to ensure an aviary is
completely secure before introducing any
reptiles as even a small gap may provide
an escape route. Careful research must be
undertaken to ensure that any species
housed outdoors will tolerate the local
climate. Aviaries can also provide good
temporary housing for sunning reptiles
during the day.
Outdoor Pits.
Much like an outdoor aviary, a reptile pit
can be a great housing option for some
species if your local climate permits.
Outdoor pits must not only be escape-
proof, but also offer the reptile inhabitants
protection from potential predators such as
birds of prey and cats. Many keepers
successfully house and even breed a
range of species in pits.
Above: glass display enclosure at Amazing Amazon.
Below: landscaped glass enclosures ready for
reptiles, available for purchase at Kellyville Pets.
Right: racking systems can be very useful for
hatchlings and very small animals.