Zilla Spring Cave Review: Running Water Reptile Hide for Crested Geckos?

This review dives into the Zilla Spring Cave, a unique habitat enhancement designed specifically for crested geckos. We explore the product's impressive size and robust construction, noting both its strengths and minor drawbacks. The assembly process, featuring a miniature pump, LED light, and water reservoir, is examined in detail, along with the overall aesthetic impact on a crested gecko terrarium. Expect an in-depth look at the functionality of the running water feature and its integration into an existing setup.From initial unboxing and assembly to the final integration into a complete terrarium, this review provides a comprehensive assessment of the Zilla Spring Cave. We'll discuss the pros and cons of this premium product, weighing its considerable cost against the quality of its design and functionality. Ultimately, we'll determine whether this visually appealing water feature is a worthwhile investment for discerning crested gecko keepers.

Read more: 5 Amazing Natural Caves Perfect for Reptiles

Unboxing the Zilla Spring Cave

Upon receiving the Zilla Spring Cave, I was immediately struck by its size. It was significantly larger than anticipated, raising concerns about whether it would even fit into my existing setup. The packaging was surprisingly robust, leading to a slightly laborious unboxing process.

Close-up of the large Zilla Spring Cave box
Close-up of the large Zilla Spring Cave box

The cave itself is a two-piece design, revealing a surprisingly intricate internal structure. The initial impression is one of high-quality construction, although some aspects, like the rather poorly engraved logo, detract slightly from the overall aesthetic appeal.

The reviewer struggling to open the sturdy packaging
The reviewer struggling to open the sturdy packaging

The initial unboxing revealed a surprisingly large cave. The sturdy construction and intricate details, while impressive, also made the unboxing a bit more challenging than expected. The size certainly exceeded my expectations.

The two-piece cave components are shown
The two-piece cave components are shown

Detailed Examination of the Cave's Features

The Zilla Spring Cave features a sizable reservoir at the bottom designed to hold the water for the running water system. A rather poorly engraved logo is present on the reservoir, a detail that could be improved.

Close-up of the water reservoir with the poorly engraved logo
Close-up of the water reservoir with the poorly engraved logo

The middle section of the cave incorporates a clever system of slits and small plants to direct the flow of water. The water is intended to drip through small plastic protrusions, creating a natural-looking waterfall effect.

The reviewer points out the water channels and plant features
The reviewer points out the water channels and plant features

A miniature pump is included, along with a small LED light and a crested gecko feeder bowl. The overall design is aimed at creating a realistic and functional habitat enhancement.

The small pump, LED light, and feeder bowl are highlighted
The small pump, LED light, and feeder bowl are highlighted

Assembly and Setup

Assembly involves connecting the various components, including the pump and the reservoir. Some users might find the assembly process somewhat fiddly due to the small size of certain parts.

Connecting the pump and reservoir
Connecting the pump and reservoir

The inclusion of a small, realistic-looking stick adds to the habitat's appeal. Its design might encourage climbing behavior in the crested geckos.

The small stick included with the cave
The small stick included with the cave

The final setup reveals a visually appealing, functional water feature. The blue LED light casts a unique ambiance, enhancing the cave's overall aesthetic.

The completed and assembled Zilla Spring Cave
The completed and assembled Zilla Spring Cave

Integration into the Terrarium

Integrating the Zilla Spring Cave into the existing terrarium required some adjustments to accommodate its size. The reviewer mentions needing to clear out space and rearrange existing decorations.

The reviewer cleaning the terrarium
The reviewer cleaning the terrarium

The reviewer adds Spanish moss to create a more natural-looking environment. The final arrangement showcases the cave's integration into the larger terrarium setup.

Adding Spanish moss to the terrarium
Adding Spanish moss to the terrarium

The final terrarium setup is complete and looks amazing, including the added moss and the perfectly placed Zilla Spring Cave, adding a unique touch to the whole environment.

Final terrarium setup with the Zilla Spring Cave
Final terrarium setup with the Zilla Spring Cave

Final Verdict

Overall, the Zilla Spring Cave is a high-quality, visually appealing addition to a crested gecko terrarium. The running water feature and LED light are particularly noteworthy.

The Zilla Spring Cave in action within the terrarium
The Zilla Spring Cave in action within the terrarium

While the price point ($90) might seem high, the reviewer feels it's justified given the product's quality and unique features. The assembly process could be slightly improved, but the overall experience is positive.

The reviewer summarizing their positive experience
The reviewer summarizing their positive experience

The Zilla Spring Cave is a worthwhile purchase for those seeking a premium, visually appealing, and functional water feature for their reptile terrarium. The integration into the terrarium might require some careful planning due to its size.

The complete updated terrarium setup
The complete updated terrarium setup