Escaped Reptiles

One of the most important factors when keeping a reptile is housing. I'm not talking about heating, decor, bedding or lighting, but the fact your animal requires an escape proof enclosure. Reptiles are natural escape artists and will use any gap big enough to their advantage. It's vital to ensure that if your housing has any gaps, that your animal can't fit through them. It's also important to have locks on vivariums, although always remember that vents and very small drilled holes will be needed for a steady flow of air. 

When it comes to ensuring that my reptiles are secure, I have locks fitted to both my vivarium and rack system. I always check that the locks are correctly in place after handling and maintenance. My motto is "close it, lock it, check it." I have also sealed any large gaps which, could be used as an escape route. I learned this the hard way, after one of my leopard geckos got under a gap in a tank divider. I also was lucky at the time to notice that there was also a gap at the back of the tank. Luckily the Leo had not discovered it. The gaps did not appear large enough for her to get out off, so be prepared to be shocked at what great escape artists they make!

Vivarium lock, available from most pet shops

Fitted vivarium lock

This would be a more important factor when dealing with venomous reptiles as the rules on their housing is different to that of non "hot" animals. It is highly recommended that all venomous animals should have a locked enclosure at all times, bar during feeding or maintaining their housing. They should be housed in a secure non-tip vivarium and furthermore, the reptiles should be kept in a secure room with two doors in case of escape. The room has to be designed to contain an escaped animal without posing a threat to the public. Don't forget: in the UK, it is illegal to keep any venomous reptile without acquiring a DWA license. 

HOW TO FIND ESCAPED ANIMALS

This really depends on where the reptile escaped from, for example if it was in your house or during transportation.

The first place to look would be anywhere warm as reptiles need heat to control their temperatures. I have heard of cases when an escaped animal has been found at the back of a television, fridge, computer, anything that gives off heat. If this method is not successful, the next option is checking any place that would make a good and secure hide, under tight spaces or places they are able to climb: for example, inside a wardrobe or chest of open drawers. If this is still not successful, you could try putting flour across door ways as this could let you see what room the reptile is in if they move from room to room. The other trick is put down newspaper and see if you can hear the animal moving through it at night, if it is a nocturnal species.

Don't sit back and let this happen. Check all locks!

Another option would be to purchase and set a minnow trap. This is a type of square cage with a funnel at either end. They are designed to enclose the animal and prevent them from finding a way out. Always make sure the trap is the correct size for your reptile as avoiding injury or death is vital for the safety of your animal. To set the trap I recommend using soiled rodent bedding as this will incite snakes into the trap. I am not sure if this method would be suitable for lizards as it may cause some species to drop their tail due to stress. 

Another possible way to catch a lizard is to set up a basking spot and the lizard may use it during the day. In most cases, the animal will not travel further than the room that it was housed in so check the room thoroughly. Everywhere mentioned above and under furniture, in side of shoes, on top of curtains any place you can think of.