6 Reptiles That Are Prone to Escaping Their Tanks

Written By

Mathew Abraham

Updated on

Mathew Abraham

Meet Mathew, Cat Dad and Animal Advocate! Mathew is the editor at PawDown, overseeing content strategy and quality. He's in charge of carefully curating the best pet stories, tips, and advice for you.

reptile in cage
rakhmat suwandi/Pexels

Reptiles are intriguing creatures, but they’re also great at slipping away. Some species are more prone to breaking out of their enclosures due to their curiosity, climbing abilities, or knack for squeezing through small gaps. Without proper precautions, these reptiles can find ways to escape, which could put them at risk. Let’s explore six reptile species that are especially prone to escaping their tanks, and understand why these species are escape-prone.

1. Ball Pythons

ball python
beachbumxotics/pixabay

Ball Pythons are known for their escape artistry. These snakes can squeeze through small gaps. They’re excellent climbers, and their ability to push against tank lids or gaps makes them escape-prone. Ball Pythons are also known for their ability to “ball up,” which makes them harder to spot. Without a secure, lockable lid, they can easily escape. They tend to find dark, hidden areas, so always double-check the enclosure. Ensuring your Ball Python’s tank has a secure and tight-fitting lid is essential for their safety.

2. Bearded Dragon

Bearded Dragon
Alexa/Pixabay

Bearded Dragons are very curious reptiles. Their active and inquisitive nature makes them prone to escaping. These reptiles are also great climbers and may attempt to scale tank walls or escape via small gaps in their enclosures. They can push against lids or even crawl over tanks with inadequate barriers. To prevent escapes, always use secure lids or enclosures with no gaps. Their tendency to explore can lead them to unexpected areas, so a well-maintained enclosure is necessary to keep them safe.

3. Leopard Gecko

LEOPARD GECKO
dmitry-kharitonov/Pexels

Leopard Geckos, although not strong climbers are skilled at squeezing through small openings. They can slip out of tanks with gaps in the lid or door. Their small size and agility make it easy for them to escape through spaces you might not notice. Ensure that the lid of your Leopard Gecko’s tank is secure and that there are no holes, especially near the edges or corners. While these geckos prefer to stay grounded, they’re still adept at finding ways to escape if given the chance.

4. Green Iguana

A Green Iguana
Salao/PixaBay

Green Iguanas are large, strong reptiles capable of climbing almost anything. Their powerful legs and tails allow them to scale walls and escape from tanks. If your enclosure lacks proper climbing barriers or a secure lid, they will likely find a way out. These reptiles are not only excellent climbers but also very determined. Iguanas will test every inch of their enclosure, especially when they feel restricted. To prevent escapes, it’s essential to have a secure and high enclosure with no weak spots or openings.

5. Red-Eared Slider

A Red-eared Slider Turtle
Flyri/PixaBay

Red-eared Sliders are aquatic turtles with an adventurous spirit. These turtles are known for their escape attempts, often squeezing through small gaps in their tanks. If the lid is not secure or there are gaps around the edges, they will find a way out. Red-eared Sliders are especially adept at climbing ramps and barriers. They often try to escape to explore new territories or search for food. Always ensure your tank is tall and has no accessible gaps or weak spots to prevent these turtles from escaping.

6. Veiled Chameleon

Veiled Chameleon
Nikolett Emmert/Pexels

Veiled Chameleons are notorious for escaping, especially because of their climbing skills. They can scale walls, mesh tanks, and even push against tank lids to create small gaps. These chameleons are extremely agile and can maneuver through surprisingly tight spaces. A small crack or loose lid can be enough for them to escape. Because they are arboreal, they need tall enclosures with no gaps or spaces for them to climb out. Make sure your Veiled Chameleon’s habitat is secure, with a proper lid or mesh that doesn’t allow any openings.

Love Pets as Much as We Do?

Reptile follow
Peter Law/Pexels

Scroll up and click the ‘Follow’ button to stay updated with the latest heart-warming, hilarious, and helpful pet posts from Pawdown, delivered straight to your Microsoft Start feed and MSN homepage!

Related Posts

Explore 8 top pet snake species and 5 wild, dangerous snakes that are never fit for captivity.
Considering a Tegu lizard as a pet? While intelligent and affectionate, they require proper handling and a suitable environment. Here are 12 pros and cons to help you decide if a Tegu is right for you.
Discover 10 ideal land turtles for pet owners, from the adaptable Eastern box turtle to the rare diamondback terrapin, with detailed care needs
Discover 10 reptile species that look like mini dinosaurs and learn about their care and permit requirements.
Snapping turtles are fascinating but challenging pets, with aggression, high care needs, and ethical concerns."
Discover the risks of exotic pet ownership! Learn about 10 dangerous animals people keep as pets and why they may be unsuitable.
Discover 10 small reptiles perfect as pets, from geckos to snakes. Learn care tips and find your ideal low-maintenance companion.
Discover 8 reptiles perfect for handling and 4 independent species that thrive in solitude, catering to all pet owners' needs.
Not all reptiles make good pets! Discover 15 challenging species to avoid and 5 friendly reptiles perfect for your home.

Leave a Comment