Bearded dragon DIY enclosure, bearded dragons can also be housed in enclosures made from custom DIY pieces. To make sure your new best friend is taken care of and comfortable in his/her new home, there are some tips you should follow when creating a DIY enclosure for your little reptilian pal. In this article we will discuss the materials needed and how to create the perfect setup for your bearded dragon’s enclosure.
Key Takeaways
- Building a DIY bearded dragon enclosure is a cost-effective way to create a custom habitat for your pet.
- When creating a DIY enclosure, it is important to prepare the container by cleaning and smoothing out any rough edges.
- Installing insulation boards is necessary to regulate the temperature inside the container.
- Mesh or chicken wire should be securely attached to the top of the enclosure to maintain proper temperature and humidity levels.
- Adding substrate such as sand or soil, rocks, and plants can provide a comfortable environment for your bearded dragon.
Bearded Dragon DIY Enclosure
Building a DIY beard dragon enclosure can be a great way to save money and create a custom habitat for your pet. It involves getting an old wooden cabinet, dresser or container, sanding down rough spots or splinters, and lining the inside with insulation boards and mesh or chicken wire on top. Substrate such as sand or soil as well as rocks and plants should also be added to provide a comfortable environment.
Step One: Prepare the Container
The first step in setting up a bearded dragon enclosure is to prepare the container. You can use an old wooden dresser, container, or cabinet that you already have, or buy one for $5 or less from sites like Gumtree and Facebook Marketplace.
The container should measure at least 36 x 18 x 18 inches so that your bearded dragon has enough room to move around and explore. Before using the container, it’s important to smooth out any rough edges with sandpaper and clean it thoroughly with a sponge dipped in hot water and dish soap.
This will help ensure that your bearded dragon stays healthy by eliminating any potential bacteria or parasites that may be present in the enclosure.
Step Two: Set up the Insulation Boards
Installing insulation boards is an important step in creating a container garden. The insulation boards help to regulate the temperature inside the container, keeping it warm in winter and cool in summer.
To begin, use a table saw to cut out the insulation boards to fit the exact measurements of the container’s outer sides. Make sure that a competent adult is doing this task as it can be dangerous if done incorrectly.
Step Three: Install the Mesh or Chicken Wire
Mesh or chicken wire should be securely attached to the top of a DIY bearded dragon enclosure to maintain proper temperature and humidity levels. Sharp edges should be avoided when installing and a screen door may also be added for easy access. This ventilated panel will ensure that your pet has a safe and comfortable home.
Step Four: Cut the Plexiglass or Acrylic Sheet
Careful measurement and use of a table saw is necessary to cut the plexiglass or acrylic sheet for the front of a bearded dragon’s tank. Safety precautions should be taken when using the table saw, and the doors should be set aside until they are ready to be installed.
Step Five: Paint the Enclosure
When making a habitat for your dragon, painting the enclosure can give it a more finished look. Make sure to use non-toxic paint and choose colors that mimic the dragon’s natural environment. Before painting, clean the enclosure and allow it to dry completely before moving on. If you are unsure about painting, you can skip this step altogether.
Step Six: Install the Plexiglass or Acrylic Sheet
To install Plexiglass or Acrylic Sheet as a door for a DIY enclosure, you need to construct a 2×2 inch wooden frame with grooves on the sticks so the doors can be slotted in place. The doors should overlap one another slightly so they can slide back and forth to give access to the enclosure.
Step Seven: Add Substrate and Decorations
In order to create a comfortable and stimulating environment for a bearded dragon, the tank should be decorated with substrate, live or artificial plants, rocks, caves, hammocks, ramps, bridges and driftwood. Additionally, a large water bowl must be placed in the middle of the enclosure so that your pet can submerge most of its body in it. These additions will help keep your pet hydrated and healthy.
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