So, you’ve decided that a reptile is the right animal for you. But which reptile? There are some species that are not suitable as pets (especially for beginners) and others that will not be ready to breed for years. Do these characteristics fit in with your plans? The key to…
Reptiles have evolved in many climates and localities, resulting in large variations in dietary requirements. Their dietary needs also vary greatly depending on species, size, and their state of maturity. As a general rule, reptiles can be herbivores (eats mainly or only plants), omnivores (eats plants and animals), or carnivores…
Where you put your reptile’s enclosure depends on a few different things, including: Temperature Sunlight Disturbances How much space your reptile needs In this article, we’ll go through these factors so that you can choose the best location for your reptile. We will focus on indoor enclosures, but many of…
Behaviour in the wild Reptiles as a group vary widely in their natural history. They are found in an array of habitats and ecological niches, including the following: The temperature extremes of the desert (hot by day, cold by night) The heat and humidity of the tropical rainforest Freshwater creeks…
Large semi-arboreal (spending some of their time in trees) pythons of the genus Morelia are common in the suburbs of Australian cities such as Sydney, Brisbane, Cairns, Perth, and Darwin. Throughout most of this range, the most common python is the ‘carpet python’, Morelia spilota. There are 6-8 subspecies within…
Australia is home to over 20 species of freshwater turtle. They all share the characteristic of retracting their head and neck beneath their shell by folding it to one side (‘side-necked’ turtles), rather than drawing their head backwards as do most of the world’s species of turtles and tortoises. They…
The most common reptile species kept as pets are typically medium-sized, non-threatened, captive-bred, and easily obtained. The central (or inland) bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps) fits this description perfectly, making it by far the most popular pet reptile in the world. General information Common name: central (inland) bearded dragon Scientific name:…
The most common reptile species kept as pets are typically medium-sized, non-threatened, captive-bred, and easily obtained. The Eastern Blue Tongue skink (Tiliqua scincoides scincoides) fits this description perfectly, making it a popular pet around the world. General information Common name: Eastern Blue Tongue skink Scientific name: Tiliqua scincoides scincoides Natural…
Although keeping reptiles (such as turtles, lizards, and snakes) is common in many parts of the world, relatively little is known about how to properly care for them in captive settings. What’s more, the trade in reptiles in some countries fuels the illegal exotic animal trade, which is harmful to…
Although it is not always a good idea, some reptile owners allow their reptiles to roam through the house, or at least a few rooms. While this may enrich your reptile’s life, it may also put them at risk of disease, injury, or even death. What hazards are out there?…