I figured it was about time to update my toads' pad. I am getting tired of changing paper towels too. I have been putting this together for the past few days and I imagine it's time to post for suggestions an opinions. This is my first vivarium but I have had planted tanks before. I am hoping to plant this tomorrow with local species. Being this is Florida, we have common vivarium plants growing in the yard. I also have access to a few cool mosses that I hope to incorporate.

I am aware that toads like a dry-ish habitat so I have created two zones. The left side is high and dry while the far right is very moist. The large water source is to ensure that they get their soaking needs without being too much maintenance.



This is the full tank. The bottom is a 2" deep false bottom with eggcrate covered by a fine potato bag mesh. Above this layer is a nonfertilized soil without perlite, about 2" in the middle. The top layer is a layer of hydrated eco-earth.



This is the right side. It consists of an internal, motorized water filter sitting in the false bottom; smooth and large rocks; and a simple plastic water tray. I would like to cover the filter with moss or something. I have used some large rocks to cover the crevices around the filter as I have found that toads are not the smartest creatures. I am hoping to add some mosses to this area and perhaps duckweed. The water spills over the bowl to the right onto the rocks and seeps into the false bottom layer. I am thinking about how I could improve drainage over here but I guess it doesn't matter as long as there are plenty of dry spots for the toads.



Last but not least is the left-hand, high and dry side. I would like to plant this to add shade and hiding places. I would also like to incorporate leaf litter into the tank as well.

I would appreciate any suggestions for drainage, humidity control, and toad proofing especially. Other comments are welcome as well. The toads are looking curiously at the tank as they hear the water running. I enjoy how curious and intelligent they are (within limits, a toad is only built to do so many things).