Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Just a couple of touches, like creating a curtained off area on the left so he feels protected while in the water behindthe hanging leaves. Also improved water flow so water circulates all the way around the enclosure (There was an item blocking it at the back).
Improved basking spot (higher) that can reac 100 degrees now if he goes all the way up. Looking to add another basking spot that's not right under the heat lamp - I don't think he'll figure out that it's cooler if he goes all the way up to where the plants are hanging from.

Mr. F

Still no suggestions though? Water is now 85 degrees (turned it up a little after reviewing Croc guide)

I like it. I would only add that in my experience dwarf caiman rarely bask. I say this after literally seeing one of mine basking a few hours ago but it is a rare occurence.

If anything when it comes to the dwarfs I tend to keep the aquatic area slightly cooler than you do but I think 85 will be ok. When possible try to give them a variety of temperatures so as not to limit them to 85 or 100.

It is a very attractive enclosure.
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CDieter
'Reason, observation, and experience; the holy trinity of science.'

Chris,

Thanks for the encouraging words - I was starting to get a little worried about Kimmy never basking. I read that they're primarily aquatic, but figured they'd be out at least a few times a day just to maybe dry off or raise their temp.

As for the water temp, I'm going to check the different areas, I am currently measuring at the opposite side of the heater, so I'm sure it's a little warmer right near the heater.
The odd thing is, I noticed he was hanging out near the heater, so I thought maybe it wasn't warm enough in the enclosure. That's why I raised it a few degrees. Think I should bring it back down a little?

I'd say listen to the animal. If it seems to be near the heater alot stay with that idea. Although the animal may stay near the heater for additional cover or support. I know even my large crocodiles will often move to a place with a ledge to support themselves while they are in the water.

Temperature may be one factor but not the only one.

Don't worry if it doesn't seem to bask much. Mine rarely do. Actually they belong to my wife.

I'm piggybacking on the dwarfs.
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CDieter
'Reason, observation, and experience; the holy trinity of science.'

Thanks Chris,

You just gave me an idea to provide a platform underwater so he can stand on but still remain underwater. Hopefully I guess/get the right height!

Mr. F

I agree with the above posts, and would add this:

Paleosuchus is know for hiding on dry land much of the time. I would encourage you to consider creating a new habitat for him in the next several months, with more area, including a dry land section covered in foliage (or something) for privacy. His size then would be best served by more area anyway.

I admire your care for the animal and the hard work you put into setting that up, as well as your seeking the advice of others. Not everyone does that, so thumbs up to you.
Website

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Israel Dupont
Winter Haven, FL

Thanks for the encouraging words. I've read so much but still feel so ignorant sometimes. It's the little things you end up taking for granted or become obvious to you after a while that get ya at first.

I try my best to provide the utmost care for all my pets - afterall, they're dependants

Somedays I think I should have worked at a zoo. It'd be a lot cheaper than keeping my own!

Mr. F

I'll post a couple of pics of the new enclosure in a couple of weeks (don't want to disturb him for a bit) where I'll add the underwater platform and a protected/covered land area. ok ok, I need some time to plan it too

Kudos to you. The fact that you have read and researched so much but feel you know so little is proof that you are really trying and learning. Can't remember who said it but I love the qoute "The more one learns the less one knows." Education makes you realize how much information is out there. I am more scared of the people who think they know it all and are therefore closed to any new information. Keep up the great work. I am looking forward to seeing more pics.

Thanks Radwigs,

As soon as I have him eating again, I'll improve his home and send out more pics, Either that or I will finish his larger enclosure and just move him straight into that one.

Just wondering whether to go through the 90 gallon or straight into the 180 gallon.

Mr. F