Reptile & Amphibian Forums

will be building a cage for my eventually new family member, for a blue or red tegu. I have a 6'Long x 3 1/2'Wide x 3' Tall space availible, i was wondering would this be big enough for a relatively inexpensive, not as much as the custom build ones that you can buy,?

Which is better to use and cheaper, Melamine or Plywood polyurathene?

Could i use screen or is glass my only option,plus what are my other choices?

Can i use what i have for the front also for the top for ventilation?

How can i build the locking/opening mechanism?

Does anyone know how to build a custom waterfall, or can i just build a pool in, (this can be directed to "MAP"?

Any onther custom built in pieces?(ie ledges, etc)

Whats your input on a bottom?

Thanks for every1 who posts!

Hi.

I currently have an adult male blue tegu that I raised from a baby. I've had an Arg B&W and a Red as well. I'll give you a suggestion ...

If you make a false bottom with an access hole you can put a Rubbermaid container underneath the cage floor for the tegu to use as his or her hide box. Fill the container 1/2 way with damp cypress or hemlock mulch. Tegus spend a lot of time hiding and some will hibernate during the winter months even if kept warm.

You can build a compartment that the cage stands on, slide the Rubbermaid container into the compartment (make sure it's a snug fit), and the access hole in the cage floor will let the tegu go down into the container (you can use a grommet around the access hole for added durability). You can also build a short, wide double-door in front of the compartment so the container/hide is not visible from the outside. This will keep things nice and dark in the hiding area.

This false floor system will allow much more room in the cage for the tegu to roam around. And the Rubbermaid container below will be very easy to keep clean and damp. Tegus need a humid hiding place.

Also, be sure to visit www.bluetegu.com for tegu husbandry info.

Regards,

Bill

thanks, very neat, ill look into it its a great idea, anyone else?