Zen Habitats Enclosure Review: Perfect for Water Monitors?

This review dives into the Zen Habitats enclosure, specifically its suitability for water monitors, through the lens of a dedicated reptile enthusiast. The vlog follows the journey of Pluto, a juvenile water monitor, settling into his new four-foot by two-foot by two-foot Zen Habitats enclosure over a two-month period. We'll explore the setup's minimalist design, focusing on temperature and humidity control, and witness the development of a strong bond between Pluto and his owner. The review also includes insights into the enclosure's practicality, ease of use, and overall value, considering both its advantages and potential drawbacks.Beyond Pluto's story, the video offers a glimpse into the owner's other reptile companions, including Kiki, a multi-horned rhino iguana, and provides an update on their progress with socialization and husbandry. The review culminates in a discussion of the enclosure's pros and cons, considering cost-effectiveness and potential alternatives, while also touching on the vlogger's other exciting projects, like their ball python breeding program. This comprehensive review provides valuable insights for anyone considering a Zen Habitats enclosure, particularly for water monitors.

Pros And Cons

Zen Habitat Enclosure
  • Smooth sliding doors
  • Keeps good humidity levels
  • Looks clean
  • Expandable
  • Stand is not tall enough
  • Expensive
  • Material is not sturdy

Read more: Top 5 Turtle Terrariums: Reptile Habitats Reviewed

Pluto's Zen Habitat: A Two-Month Update

This vlog provides an update on Pluto, a juvenile water monitor, and his new four-foot by two-foot by two-foot Zen Habitats enclosure. The enclosure has been inhabited for about two months, and a bond has already formed between the owner and the reptile. The video serves as a review of the enclosure and an update on Pluto's development.

Overview of Pluto's minimalist enclosure setup.
Overview of Pluto's minimalist enclosure setup.

The setup is minimalist, featuring a water bowl, a hide, and some bricks arranged to create a basking spot. A 150-watt Zoo Med bulb provides heat, and UVB is also provided. The enclosure itself is situated on a small table which also houses the reptile's feeding area.

Temperature and Humidity Control

The enclosure maintains a temperature gradient, reaching 135°F at the basking spot and dropping to around 90°F near the water bowl. The PVC material seems effective in retaining humidity. The vlogger mentions incorporating a camera for continuous observation of Pluto.

The temperature gradient inside the enclosure
The temperature gradient inside the enclosure

The creator notes that the enclosure temperature is well-maintained despite its size. This is a key benefit of this design. The PVC also seems to manage humidity effectively.

The camera monitoring Pluto inside the enclosure
The camera monitoring Pluto inside the enclosure

Other Reptiles: Kiki the Rhino Iguana

The vlog also features Kiki, a multi-horned rhino iguana. Kiki is described as flighty and fast, having escaped briefly but quickly being recovered. The owner is working on socializing her, and notes progress in reducing her skittishness.

Kiki the rhino iguana
Kiki the rhino iguana

Kiki currently resides in a Thrive 40-gallon front-opening enclosure, showcasing the preference for front-opening enclosures to improve interaction and reduce the appearance of a predator to the reptile.

Kiki's Thrive enclosure
Kiki's Thrive enclosure

Feeding Pluto

A feeding sequence showcases Pluto's preference for eggs. The interaction between the owner and Pluto demonstrates the established bond.

Preparing to feed Pluto
Preparing to feed Pluto

The video then shows the feeding of Pluto with an egg. This part of the video highlights the owner's relationship with Pluto.

Pluto eating an egg
Pluto eating an egg

Zen Habitats Enclosure Review: Pros and Cons

The vlogger praises the smooth sliding doors of the Zen Habitats enclosure but wishes the stand was taller. The cost was considered high, and the vlogger suggests cheaper alternatives might suffice.

The smooth sliding doors of the Zen Habitats enclosure
The smooth sliding doors of the Zen Habitats enclosure

Despite these minor drawbacks, the enclosure is deemed effective in maintaining humidity and overall appealing in its design. The vlogger expresses interest in purchasing another enclosure due to the positive experience. The modular design allowing expansion is also a plus.

The modular design of the Zen Habitats enclosure
The modular design of the Zen Habitats enclosure

Ball Python Breeding Season Update

The video concludes with a quick update on the vlogger's ball python breeding season. After experiencing setbacks in previous years, there is hope for a successful breeding season, with potential eggs anticipated.

The incubator for ball pythons
The incubator for ball pythons

This final section briefly touches on the vlogger's other projects. The update showcases a balance between multiple species of reptiles.