Building a lizard cage

Most reptiles like to stay outdoors

Makes sense doesn't it? After all, in their natural habitat lizards are outside. If the climate allows, all lizard species, especially the larger ones, should be housed in an outside cage. Fresh air, humidity, sunshine, and enough space to roam freely are all aspects of an ideal outside environment for your lizard.

What is your climate like?

While lizards can somewhat tolerate drier and colder climates, they are not optimal. If you live in an area that is too cold or dry, you should house your reptile indoors. If you're in an area that is humid, but experiences cool periods throughout the year, we recommend investing in a heated shelter.

Build a solid, escape proof, and comfortable cage for your lizard

Just like any animal in captivity, it's highly probably that your lizard may try to make a run for it at some point. You should keep this in mind when building your cage. You should build a cage that is large enough for them to have plenty of roaming room. Use a hard, solid floor beneath your substrate (so they can't burrow under and out of your cage), and use a smooth material for walls so they can't climb out. Finally, avoid glass - glass is heavy, pricey, and can prove a danger to your lizard if shattered.

Keeping your lizard safe and warm

If you live in an area that experiences heavy rainfall, you'll want to make sure you cover your lizard cage with waterproof coating, and you can purchase waterproof lamps. And if you live in a cold area, build your cage with only one entrance and add insulation material to keep heat from escaping. You may also want to use an electric heater, like those used in greenhouses.

Provide plenty of water and shade for your monitor lizard

If the area you're planning to house your lizard is too hot (think Nevada, Utah, inland California, Australia, etc.) during the summer, you'll need to provide shaded shelter where they can regulate their body temperatures.

You'll also want to provide your lizard with an ample supply of water. Not only for drinking, but, for aquatic species, for swimming as well.

Hire a carpenter to build your lizard cage

If you're unsure about what you're doing, or the best way to proceed when building your lizard cage, we recommend you simply hire a carpenter. I most cases they will have the necessary expertise to build your cage, as long as you guide them and inform them of your lizards' needs.