Winter Vivarium Care in the UK
Winter is the trickiest season for UK dart frog keepers. Central heating dries out the air, temperatures fluctuate wildly, and maintaining a stable microclimate becomes a daily challenge. Here’s how to set up your vivarium for success.
Temperature Control
Target 22–26°C during the day, with a gentle dip at night. Avoid under-tank heaters, which can desiccate the substrate. Thermostat-controlled ceramic emitters or side heat mats are safer choices.
Humidity Retention
UK homes in winter are notorious for low humidity. Counteract this by increasing misting frequency and adding live plants like bromeliads, ferns, and mosses. Covering part of the vivarium lid with glass or acrylic sheets can help trap humidity without stifling airflow. Our tropical moss mix is a great option for helping stabilise moisture.
Lighting Cycles
Stick to a 12-hour day/night cycle with full-spectrum lighting. Even if daylight hours shorten, your frogs benefit from consistency. Timers are a must — you don’t want your frogs relying on your memory to switch lights on and off. Pair with vivarium kits for ease of setup.
Common Problems
- Condensation: A little is normal, but constant dripping glass means airflow is too restricted.
- Dry spots: If leaf litter feels crispy, mist more often or adjust ventilation.
- Temperature spikes: Watch out when central heating kicks in — thermostats help prevent dangerous fluctuations.
Stable husbandry now means healthier frogs and less stress later in the season. For more, see our frog care guides.
