Reptile & Amphibian Forums

My babies love it when they get a chance to have some real sunlight. I would like to be able to put them outside for a few hours each day to get some sun (and save some electricity), but I am concerned that they will overheat. Any suggestions on what kind of setup I should use outside? I have an extra tank (1 ft x 2ft x 2ft) that I plan to move outside.

If that tank is glass, don't do it! The sun will turn the tank into a literal oven for your lizards. The same with lights, just on a smaller scale - that's why it's important to have a thermometer to check temps all the time on your animals.

What I've gotten from others is perfect: get a large plastic container (at least the size of a 20gal tank, if not the size of a 40 or bigger!), cut out the top and sides, and use a hot glue gun to firmly attach screening to the holes. This will be a nice, light-weight, not-too-hot enclosure for them. Just make sure you provide them some shade (hides are the best), water out of the sun, and check on them frequently just to be sure.

You could also make a cage yourself with wood and hardware cloth (1/2" should be fine), and provide all the same things. As long as there is shade and water always available, there's not any need to worry.

Good luck!

Hello,
I have several of the plastic blanket box with screen and hot glue cages. They work good and some of them have lasted over 10 years. I also use the 22g Reptariums. You can get them off Ebay or LLL Reptiles for a good price.