Health & WellnessSetting up an ackie monitor outdoor enclosure: digging & UVB
I am very glad that you are looking into husbandry before purchasing an ackie!
There is a good care sheet with information on ackies on the Reptiles Magazine website. Based on your location in TX, it may work well to have the ackie outside, but there are a few things to consider. Evaluating the temperature requirements for this species in comparison to the temperatures that you have in your area during the year will be important. We don't want the monitor to get too cold at any point. Thankfully, if needed, supplemental heat sources can also be used outdoors. If these are used, please ensure that they are properly positioned so the ackie cannot access them, and that they are weather-proofed to prevent any electric shock.
Also ensure that humidity is high enough in the enclosure - depending on your area, it may need to be supplemented for this species.
I would recommend the use of digital thermometers and hygrometers (measure humidity) to keep an eye on the temperature and humidity in the enclosure outside.
For the digging portion of the enclosure - there is information about substrate on the care sheet, but it would be pertinent to ensure that the sides are buried underground for an outdoor enclosure. This species can be very good at digging, and it would be tragic to lose your pet by it digging under the barrier that you provided.
I hope that gives you a place to start with your research, and if you are interested in talking more about this prior to purchasing your ackie, I would be happy to do a consult with you!
Updated on September 24th, 2025
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