I know this has been discussed many times, but I am putting a somewhat different twist on this idea, so I thought I would solicit some opinions.

I want to do a cage production, but it will appear empty. After some by play and building the audience up to expect a bird prodction to fill the cage, I will produce a lizard instead.

I tried this out last night at home with tiny cage I have (finch size) and one of my smaller lizards. It certainly cracked my wife up, when I put the lizard into the cage.

The problem is, this particular lizard is skittish and prone to biting, so I am not 100% sure I want to work with her. The last thing I need is to get bit by something with razor sharp teeth while doing a show or chasing her all over the stage if hse gets spooked. Plus, when she gets angery or stressed. she goes from a brilliant neon lime green to a dark ugly brown.

I want to use one of my larger more docile lizards for this, but am seeking a suitable cage. Since he will not be in the cage, the saftey or mechinisims of the cage aren't that important. I would prefer a cage that has a solid bottom so his feet and tail don't fall through.

I am also open to suggestions for producing a regualr bird cage. I have considered using a parakeet cage, and stealing it from behind a screen after a large production of silks, but as I said, I am open to other ideas as well.

You can get a stretching black material, similar to spandex, and sew/attach it to the bottom of your appearing cage. This will allow the cage to function normally and solve the problem you have regarding a bottom in the cage. The lizard's nails/claws should not be a problem with the thicker material.

Thomas Clark is very creative at building things. He is also a magician. You might want to contact him to see what his ideas are.