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

Some time ago I posted an article concerning possible new Federal regulations that could limit the trade in live amphibians (read it here), and promised to notify folks when the government asked for public comments.  That time is now upon us.

The Proposal – History and Intent

The proposed regulations stem from concerns that the trade in live frogs and salamanders (and frog legs) is aiding the spread of 2 deadly amphibian diseases, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (“Chytrid fungus” or Bd) and Ranavirus (please see the article mentioned earlier for details).   Read More »

It’s well known that whole animals, complete with skin and internal organs, are the best source of nutrition for most carnivorous reptiles and amphibians.  Hobbyists keeping and breeding small species that fee upon mammals must often cut pink mice and similar food items into pieces in order to feed their collections.  In doing so, important nutrients are lost, and health, especially in the case of growing animals, usually suffers.  The African Pygmy Mouse (Mus minutoides) provides one possible solution to this problem. Read More »

In the Asian Flying Frog amphibian enthusiasts find a rare treat – a fascinating species with rarely-seen reproductive habits that is hardy, inexpensive and fairly easy to breed in captivity.  Also known as the Banana Frog, Golden Foam Nest Frog and Asian Treefrog (Polypedates leucomystax, Family Rhacophoridae), this active beauty is well worth more attention from hobbyists and zoos. Read More »

Keeping live-bearing lizards does away with one of the biggest stumbling blocks to success in reptile breeding – egg incubation.  The 90+ species of Swifts (also known as Spiny or Fence Lizards, genus Sceloporus) that dwell in North and Central America are particularly good choices for both beginning and advanced reptile breeders.  All are beautiful, active and interesting, and many bear their young alive.  Please see Part 1 of this article for additional information on getting started with these fascinating dynamos. Read More »

Phorid Flies, also known as Scuttle Flies or Humpbacked Flies, often show up in terrariums housing reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates.  Usually confused with Fruit Flies, these little pests feed upon meat-based foods and organic waste and are classified in the 4,000+ member insect family Phoridae.  The most commonly encountered species in US collections is Megacelia scalaris, and an outbreak can range from a mere annoyance to a serious problem.  Please see Part 1 of this article for further information.  Today we’ll examine some simple methods of controlling these and related flies. Read More »