First Chameleon Ive Ever Owned

[clayw]

I havent bought the animal yet, but Id like to know if its a good idea to build my own enclosure? And start stocking it up with plants and equipment...

What are some good materials to build an enclosures out of?
-Clay

 

[Jsiddens]

2x2's and plastic mesh for the sides and metal mesh for the top in case you get a bulb too close. Stapler and a friend to hold it up for you and help you stretch the screen tight. Total cost for a 2x2x4 is under 40$ no problem. Be warned making cages is addictive. Ive built 5 now always changing something or improving something. The plants inside are not the right size for the enclosure I just keep my starts in there and put them outside to keep bugs and animals away from them. Good thinking on your part getting everything setup before you buy a cham. Keep searching around the forum and you are sure to find some plans or some pics of diy cages. Have fun.

 

[Dave Weldon]

...And start stocking it up with plants and equipment...
-Clay

Howdy Clay,

If you are near the Pomona Fairgrounds, this is the weekend for the big Reptile Super Show!

https://www.chameleonforums.com/rep...-8-2010-los-angeles-ca-pomona-fairplex-44107/

You will lots of the extras that you'll want for your enclosure setup all in one place along with many of the local and out of state chameleon breeders. It's a great chance to meet them in person.

I'll be in the shared both along with Elisa from Chameo.org (non-profit) // South Bay Chameleon Keepers [SBCK] (group in the Los Angeles area). We're located back on the end of an aisle on the left side of the show. We'll be sharing chameleon husbandry basics etc. Stop by if you make it to the show .

 

[clayw]

Hi Dave,
Actually I work in the saltwater industry, with Cadlights, we build tanks. And I am in the building directly across from the saltwater building.

Thanks jsiddons
-clay

 

[clayw]

Well I decided to just build my own enclosure, I plan on letting the cham free range a lot so this enclosure wont be to big, mostly because it will be baby when I purchase it. Anyways, i went down to homedepot and picked up something a little small than a 2x2. Im staining and sealing the wood right now with Behr Semi Transperant weatherproofing wood stain. Its made for decks and stuff so I figured with the constant misting this stuff will help the wood out. Tomorrow when I go into work Ill cut the wood up and frame it out. I have not picked up the aluminum mesh for the top yet, I will do that soon. My dimensions will be
14" long x 14" wide x 20" high.
-clay