Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Has anyone ever kept reptiles in a greenhouse? I am researching the idea (just for fun at this point). I am especially interested in the UV transmition through materials commonly used in greenhouse cover, as well as any experience any of you have with heating a greenhouse throughout the winter.
any info appreciated,
chris

>>I am especially interested in the UV transmition through materials commonly used in greenhouse cover...

This varies dramatically. The products that least restrict the transmission of UVA and UVB rays tend to be the most expensive. What some people do is place a few panels in to allow areas to receive UVR. Less expensive and the animals seem to "uv-regulate" to the areas where the UVR comes through, interestingly enough.

>> ...as well as any experience any of you have with heating a greenhouse throughout the winter.

Again, this varies dramatically depending on the type of heat source and the area of the country you are in. In some parts of the country you need to use glass that blocks radiant energy so these are actually pretty efficient when radiant heaters are used. Without this glass the room would overheat.

In other parts of the country you want to take advantage of the radiant energy and allow it through.

There is actually many, many considerations when building a green house. One that houses reptiles is particuarly unique.

If it were me I'd have a greenhouse built from glass that was best suited for my part of the county and the specific location where it will be situated (you need to account for shade, etc.) and then put in a few strategically placed panels that allow UVR transmission.
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Current snakes:

1.1 Gonyosoma oxycephala - (Silver/Yellow)

1.2 Gonyosoma oxycephala - (Green)

7.5 Gonyosoma janseni - (Black)

0.1 Gonyosoma janseni - (Black & Tan)