Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hello all! I have seen that many use galvanized stock tanks for enclosures, and I was wondering what you would use as an escape-proof lid for one of those? I'm not very creative when it comes to building things, and my ideas don't seem like they would work too well. Anybody have some good ideas they would share? Thanks!
-----
1.1.0 Leopard Geckos (Booger & Gimp)
1.0.0 Veiled Chameleon (Lucutis)

I would begin making the enclosure secure by constructing a wooden frame around the stock tank. You could easily purchase some 2x2's from a hardware store and create this frame around your cage. I would then cut plywood to fit the top of the frame and secure it with screws. Using a jigsaw or circular saw, you could cut the size opening you would want for the lid. I would make the lid open on hinges and secure it by barrel bolts. You can find all these products at Lowe's, Home Depot, or your local hardware store. I would stain and finish the plywood with spar varnish so you can make the wood water-resistant and easy to clean.
Approximate cost:
2x2's= $1.50 each
4'x8' plywood= $15.00
Hinges= $2.00 for set of two
Barrel Bolts= $1.00 each

If you have any other questions, please e-mail me.
I have created cages in much a similar fashion.

Where can you get the galvanized troughs?
Has anybody ever used plastic troughs, have they warped under the high temps used for monitors?
Thank you,
Phil

You can get them at an agriculture/farm supply store. I found several dealers near me by going to www.behlencountry.com. You can click the stock tank link and there is also a link to locate dealers near you. You just type in your zip code and away it goes!
-----
1.1.0 Leopard Geckos (Booger & Gimp)
1.0.0 Veiled Chameleon (Lucutis)

the plastic/rubber troughs are not a great choice. they taper in as they go down, which means a smaller footprint (lame) and a less than vertical escape route (also lame). the plastic itself also gives enough grip for many monitors to climb the side, making escape a real issue (super duper lame : )
-----
robyn@proexotics.com

Pro Exotics Reptiles

Thank you for such a detailed reply, it is very helpful!
-----
1.1.0 Leopard Geckos (Booger & Gimp)
1.0.0 Veiled Chameleon (Lucutis)