What is a caiman lizards environment like?

With the likelihood of reaching four feet or longer, these animals will need an exceptionally large enclosure as adults. Young Caiman lizards should have an enclosure that measures at least four feet by one foot and is at least 2 feet tall (55 gallon tank). An adult should have an enclosure that is at least 6 feet long, 3 feet wide and 4 feet tall. A large water area should be provided for these lizards as well as a land area and plenty of vertical space with climbing opportunities.

Provide a shelter such as a Habba Hut or Cork Round on the land area. These large lizards may tear up some live plants, but robust live plants can be used to add a naturalistic look, increase humidity and provide cover. Artificial plants may also be used to provide cover and a naturalistic look to the enclosure.

Plenty of sturdy climbing branches should be provided around and especially over the water area. Large cork branches or Mopani Wood can be placed partially in the water to create basking areas. Be sure that branches are secure as these lizards love to climb and dig and they may knock over unsecured cage decorations.

Caiman lizards are tropical animals that require warm temperatures year round in order to thrive. Daytime ambient temperatures should be maintained between 80 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit with a basking area of 100 degrees or higher. Night time temperatures may drop but should not fall below 75 degrees. There are several different heating elements that may be used to maintain the proper thermal gradient in a Caiman lizard enclosure. A halogen spot lamp can be used to provide the basking area. These bulbs burn hotter than standard basking lamps which can be very helpful when working with a large enclosure.

These lizards will spend a good portion of their day basking, so choose a branch that is able to safely and comfortably hold the animal’s weight. If more than one lizard is to be kept in an enclosure, provide multiple basking areas to prevent competition over basking resources. Additional heating elements such as ceramic heat emitters and nocturnal infrared heat lamps may be used to provide supplemental heat when necessary. These animals can be active swimmers, so it is important to protect heat lamps from splashes or to use a splash proof lamp.

Hope this helped! Good Luck!