Sand

Many reptiles are naturally found in desert environments where they would spend their time on sand, rock and sandy soil. In order to care for these animals correctly we should replicate their natural environment as closely as possible.

Sand makes a great substrate choice for reptiles from arid environments with low humidity levels. It is easy to keep clean as it can be sieved using a sand scoop or similar to remove any waste or unwanted material. Sand is an all natural product made from fine particles of rock and stone; which retain heat very well and so will warm up nicely under a heat source providing a source of belly heat for your animals.

All this being said; very few reptiles would live on a 100% sand substrate in nature. Most arid species inhabit dry scrubland and forest where they live on a sandy soil. Different bagged mixes are available that replicate these areas more closely. There are even those that have specifically designed for certain species; such as HabiStat Bearded Dragon Bedding and Leopard Gecko Bedding. Which accurately replicate what they would experience in nature. Sandy soil mixes can also be made at home using any of our available sands, soils, and wood chip.