How to set up a vivarium: maintaining the health and welfare of reptiles

• Published in: The Veterinary Nurse
• Main Author: Bowers, Lynne
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: Mark Allen Group 2012
• Subjects: Arctic
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.12968/vetn.2012.3.4.246; http://www.magonlinelibrary.com/doi/pdf/10.12968/vetn.2012.3.4.246

The class Reptilia consists of over 7780 species distributed throughout the world, with warmer regions being home to more species than cooler regions. However certain species of reptile, the common adder and European lizard for example, can be found as far north as the Arctic Circle. Given this incredible diversity of biomes, it is impractical to do justice to the husbandry needs of this class of animal in one article. The focus of this article, therefore, will be on the key concepts of setting up a standard vivarium in order to maintain the health and welfare of its occupants.