Vivaria Designs

VIVARIA DESIGNS By Jerry G. Walls

There has been a recent trend in herpeteculture towards providing naturalistic and self-sustaining environments for captive reptiles and amphibians. While these types of set-ups are most commonly associated with smaller amphibian species, more and more keepers are experimenting with maintaining larger snakes and lizards in similar ways. Jerry Wall’s new book, Vivaria Designs, covers all types of housing options, from the most basic rack units to elaborate living vivaria.

This book is quite complete, and the author has done a wonderful job at covering all of the details and caveats of vivaria design. Cage selection and customization is discussed, as are substrate choices, decorations, water features, and heating and lighting concerns.

While this book is technically designed to inform about actual habitat design, the content is broad and covers nearly all aspects of general husbandry as well. The section on live plants is particularly well done. Walls discusses what types of plants work well in various types of set-ups, and how to ensure that they thrive in the terrarium.

The lighting and heating chapter should also be of special interest. Various types of bulbs are discussed, as are the different spectrums of light and how they affect captive herps. Humidity control and cooling techniques are discussed as well.

In addition to the general information mentioned above, there are chapters that walk readers through the process of building specific types of vivaria. Woodland, rain forest, desert, wet, outdoor, and sterile set-ups are all included.

There is also a helpful chapter on tools for reptile keepers. The author discusses the proper use of many handling, cleaning, and medical tools, as well as basic snake handling techniques.

Overall, this is a great book, and it is highly recommend for every reptile enthusiast. Jerry Walls is an extremely accomplished herper, and his years of experience really show in this book. The tips and tricks that he shares are priceless, making this book an absolute bargain at only $9.95. Order your copy today at www.LLLReptile.com!