At first glance this may sound like some kind of exotic pet interior design piece. But that’s not what it’s about. We’re not going to tell you what would look best in creating a reptile habitat for display because that is entirely subjective and up to you. But what this article does discuss is which décor items are appropriate for the particular type of pet you have. Here’s what you need to know about selecting the right reptile habitat décor.

Up high or down low?

One of the first things you need to consider when designing a habitat for your reptile is whether the species prefers to live terrestrially (in the earth) or up on branches. This will be a major factor in determining which décor pieces to focus on. In fact, some items will be essential to the health and happiness of your exotic pet. If you don’t provide your chameleon with a branch to climb, for example, it will not be able to live in the way it prefers.

Keep in mind that animals of similar species do not necessarily come from the same environments. For instance, different species of geckos have different habitat requirements from each other. Make sure you check the specific preferences of your exotic pet species. Here are the living preferences for some common reptiles:

• African fat-tailed geckos and leopard geckos live primarily on the ground. Provide rocks, including a flat basking surface, and hiding places.
• Bibron’s gecko likes ground foliage and climbing branches.
• Bearded dragons need basking surfaces and ground hiding spots.
• Green iguanas need lots of (large) foliage and climbing branches. Remember that these lizards can get up to eight feet long.
• Jackson’s chameleons and veiled chameleons prefer lots of climbing branches of various sizes. Additionally, you’ll want to fill their habitat with plenty of dense foliage for hiding. Important note: Chameleons cannot be kept in glass terrariums. Instead, house them in a tall screen or wire mesh enclosure where they can climb and get plenty of airflow.
• Ball pythons are ground dwellers that prefer to have lots of low-level hiding places.

As you can see, the majority of reptiles love having habitat décor in order to conceal themselves.

Is it hot in here?

Many reptiles are from desert or tropical climates, and that means they will have certain requirements for items in their habitat that help them stay at their ideal body temperature. Animals from desert climates, which include bearded dragons, will require basking surfaces in their habitat. These are fairly large, flat rocks or rock-like décor that provide a place for your exotic to stretch out under their heat lamp. While we’re on that subject, a heat lamp isn’t exactly décor, but it is a reptile essential. Make sure you have one (or more heat lamps depending on the species).

Come into The Tye-Dyed Iguana today and check out our selection of reptile habitat décor. Our friendly team is happy to advise you on which items are appropriate for your exotic pet.