Reptile & Amphibian Forums

hi everyone...

as some of you know, I have my dwarf outside... and the weather is geting a little cold... I´m wondering how long can my boy be kept outthere...

in the morning its arround 60°F and about 88-90°F in the afternoon..

I read in Chris Dieter´s book that exist reports of dwarf caiman eatinga at 43°F...

does any one know wicho would be the lowest temp my caiman can be safe outthere???
thanks

Rick

In my opinion, and based on my own experiences the temps you are experiencing right now will not cause you any problems.

I have kept a group of dwarf caiman outside yearound here in Texas with a little supplemental heating of the water. The big thing alot of people don't realize when talking about temps and crocs is that some species of crocs will 'survive' pretty cold temperatures IF a few other conditions are met.

Crocs tend to lose motor functions and hence swimming ability as temps drop. A croc can survive a colder temp IF the water is shallow enough to prevent drowning. Once the temp drops too low and motor functions prevent the croc from getting to the surface it's down to the bottom. They'll drown just like you will.

Much lower than the temps you are experiencing at night and I'd heat the water. The days are fine.
The Ultimate Guide to crocs

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CDieter
'Reason, observation, and experience; the holy trinity of science.'

thank you very much Chris... I really appreciate your help...
so I´ll let him enjoy his outdor enclosure for some extra time...

You live in Texas..??? where???

I íve in Mexico, but travel 3 or 4 times a year to US...mostly San Antonio...

if you do live in Texas maybe I we could meet sometime... I would like to see your croc collection..

tks

rick

I live about 50 miles south of Houston near the coast.

I would welcome a visit one weekend. Have you ever been to the Crocozoo in Cancun?
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CDieter
'Reason, observation, and experience; the holy trinity of science.'

thank you so much... I´ll try to make a trip to your place next summer...

yes, I´ve gon there, it´s a beautyfull place and they have several big crocs... have you gone??

Rick

Yes, one of the best croc 'zoos' I've seen.
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CDieter
'Reason, observation, and experience; the holy trinity of science.'