Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I am planning on getting an ackie in the next couple monhts. I am currently building a 4X2X2 cage out of 3/4 inch plywood.

Would it be ok to use the cage for a hatchling if I get the heating and humidity correct or is this too big?

I know they need dirt for a substrate. Should I use dirt for a hatchling or just paper towels and a dig box?

I was planning on using a Flood Light on one side of the cage with a ceramic heater for night time on the other side. Do you think this is sufficient for this size of cage? It doesn't get real cold where I live (southern CA).

Thanks

the bigger the better. he will do terrificly in that size cage his whole life. he will search everything so give him room to search. he will use it. if you can hit the temps you will be fine. soil is fine to use as a hatchling. i dont know if the light will be sufficient. you will have to test them yourself.

Good Luck

and dont forget to get him a uvb light. he needs it to process the calcium for his bones.

Just my opinion, but if it is a tiny hatchling, that size cage initially will be overwhelming. I prefer a smaller cage for hatchlings in order to watch their eating and elimination habits. I currently have my four hatchlings in a 20 Long and it is perfect for the time being. I can easlily check on them, watch them eat and move around. I will move them to bigger cages as they grow. Good luck.

Pam