Size:
An adult frilled dragon will need a minimum enclosure of 3’x2’x4’ (length x depth x height). They are arboreal by nature, so they spend much of their time in tree tops in their native environment. Taller is better, but 4 feet will suffice. Extra-large enclosures can make it difficult to maintain proper heat, humidity, and lighting, so an 8 ft tall, 6 ft wide enclosure isn’t always the way to go either. They are very active reptiles and will utilize all space provided to them. Multiple frilled dragons can be housed together, but need additional space. Adult and/or adolescent males should absolutely not be housed together because they are territorial and will fight.
Young frilled dragons can be housed in smaller starter enclosures, but they will quickly outgrow standard aquarium sizes in a matter of months. Since they can grow rapidly and reach nearly their adult size in about a year, it’s best not buy a baby frilly and a 20 gallon without the adult enclosure already built, or at least have solid plans already in place.
Large enclosures can be difficult to attain. There are a few options though. You can buy a pre-made one, or you can build your own. However you choose to go about it, the enclosure must meet certain requirements. It must be large enough, durable, cleanable, able to hold heat and humidity, and nearly waterproof to accommodate for their humidity & water requirements. Although reptariums and screen enclosures can be tempting with their low price tags, that's about all they have going for them - they are great for some reptiles but they are not built to accommodate for the needs of a frilled dragon. Buying:
Pros: All the work is done for you. There are some very good quality ones out there that will last a long time. They also look nice and most hold heat well, and are built with accommodations for light fixtures.
Cons: They can be very expensive and usually require shipping. Specific large sizes can be very hard to find. Be prepared to spend at least $300. Building:
Pros: Definitely the cheapest way to go. Allows you to get just what you are looking for.
Cons: Requires work and planning and equipment. If not built well, they may not last as long, but with proper research and effort, they can last a very long time. Building Ideas:
Some people choose to take a large piece of furniture and modify it into their enclosure. While these can turn out well and often look the best, sometimes it’s more difficult to modify than to build from scratch. I recommend building your own from the ground up. Along with the cost benefits, it is also very fun and rewarding. See links below for help.
Building Materials:
Hardwood, melamine, plywood, & PVC are the most popular materials. Material must be covered, treated, or sealed as necessary to prevent swelling and rotting due to moisture. Front doors can be made from glass or plexiglass.
Note: Screen cages are not suitable because it is not possible to regulate temperatures and humidity within them.
Helpful links:
■ Pre-made enclosures:
■ Building help:
 5x2x4 Custom enclosure (sealed plywood, plexiglass) |
RubixReptiles.com > Basic Care >