That Reptile Blog – Reptile, Amphibian and Exotic Pet Care and Information

The Terrestrial, Purple-Pincher or Caribbean Hermit Crab (Coenobita clypeatus) makes an endearing pet.  However, it may in a sense be “too hardy” for its own good.  For example, crabs may live for years even when denied salt (marine) water and other basic needs, giving owners the false impression that all is well. Read More »

Herp enthusiasts are not the only folks in awe of Rhacodactylus leachianus, largest of the world’s geckos. Local people refer to it as the “Devil in the Forest” because, uniquely among its relatives, it can produce loud, growling sounds.  Today we’ll review what little is known about its life in the wild, and touch on captive care.

Description

At 14.5 inches, this is the largest of the geckos, but an even larger species may possibly still survive in New Zealand. It is stoutly built with loose skin and a short, blunt tail.  In contrast to most geckos, there are claws on the toes and slight webbing between them, as well as a grasping pad on the underside of the tail.  Read More »

Please see Part I of this article for notes on constructing a practical outdoor nesting area for Green Iguanas (Iguana iguana).

Nests with Underground Access

Some breeders (and commercial farms) prefer to provide an underground entranceway into the garbage can nest site (Please see Part I), which is more in keeping with the Green Iguana’s habit of constructing a nesting chamber at the end of a long tunnel.  Read More »

The stocky Chuckwalla (Sauromalus obesus) is one of my all-time favorite lizards.  Years ago, I and others found it a quite difficult captive, as little was known of its high UVB requirements.  Today, however, its husbandry is well-understood, and captive bred animals are readily available.

Food and hot basking sites are the focal points of the Chuckwalla’s life – provide it with each in proper form and you’ll find yourself with a most responsive and interesting pet.  Most take quickly to hand feeding, and their vegetable-dominated diet is a plus for many herp enthusiasts. Read More »

The Purple-Pincher Hermit Crab (Coenobita clypeatus, a/k/a Terrestrial Hermit Crab), is so commonly available that owners are often surprised to learn that the droll little crustaceans in their terrariums have quite unusual histories – they began life as microscopic plankton floating about in the ocean! Read More »