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Research News – After Feeding, Snakes Remodel their Gut and Produce New Cells

[…]the “cold-blooded” rule when digesting their meals.  While most snakes must seek out a hot basking spot in order to maximize digestion, Burmese Pythons can actually raise their internal temperatures without an external heat source!  Further Reading Please see Big Snake Meals for some examples of how large (and unusual) snake […]
Read more » Research News – After Feeding, Snakes Remodel their Gut and Produce New Cells

Breeding the Rosy Boa

[…]are more easily accommodated than most related species.  Temperatures of 78-85F, with a warmer basking spot and, if possible, a nighttime dip to 70-72F, suit them well. Breeding is most likely if the pair is maintained at 52-54 F for 6-8 weeks, but normal changes in home temperatures may be […]

Newt Toxins: Personal Observations and Interesting Facts – Part II

[…]career!).  Years later, a co-worker reported a similar incident involving a Western painted turtle (Chrysemys picta bellii). Interesting Means of Toxin Introduction Several salamanders have quite unique ways of distributing their protective secretions – fire salamanders (Salamandra salamandra), for example, can squirt theirs for some distance.  Perhaps strangest of all, […]
Read more » Newt Toxins: Personal Observations and Interesting Facts – Part II

Pet Lizards: Large, Small, and Colorful Insectivores

[…]in bare enclosures.   UVB exposure is essential, and a temperature gradient of 72-85 F, with a basking site of 90-95 F, should be established.  A diet comprised of as many insect species as possible must be supplied; crickets and mealworms alone are not adequate.   Sudan Plated Lizard, Gerrhosaurus (Broadleysaurus) […]
Read more » Pet Lizards: Large, Small, and Colorful Insectivores

Salmonella Prevention – Guidelines for Reptile and Amphibian Owners

[…]Salmonella and Micobacteria: Aqua Gloves Softshell Turtle in ginseng shop By E8976-Namdaemun-Turtles-sold-in-ginseng-shop.jpg: Vmenkov derivative work: Vmenkov (E8976-Namdaemun-Turtles-sold-in-ginseng-shop.jpg) [CC-BY-SA-3.0-2.5-2.0-1.0 (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0) or GFDL (www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html)], via Wikimedia […]
Read more » Salmonella Prevention – Guidelines for Reptile and Amphibian Owners

The 5 Best Holiday Gifts for Reptiles, Amphibians and Their Owners

[…]to hide. I wedge pieces between aquarium glass to create convenient, smooth resting sites for turtles, newts and frogs. By positioning the bark just below the water’s surface you can also provide the submerged sites favored by musk and other aquatic turtles and many amphibians. I could go on, and […]
Read more » The 5 Best Holiday Gifts for Reptiles, Amphibians and Their Owners

Breeding the Green Basilisk and Related Species – Part 2

[…]are also favored. Young Green Basilisks should be maintained at 80 F, and have access to a basking site of 85-90 F.  Sexual maturity is usually reached by age 18 months, but males may begin to do battle at the tender age of 6 months, and so should be segregated […]
Read more » Breeding the Green Basilisk and Related Species – Part 2

A Snake Breeder’s Delight – the African House Snake

[…]feet, and both sexes are slender in build. Captive Breeding An ambient temperature of 78 F with a basking site of 85-90 F suits individuals from most populations.  While some breed more reliably when chilled to 60 F for 4 weeks or so, others reproduce when maintained at a stable […]
Read more » A Snake Breeder’s Delight – the African House Snake

Boa Constrictors and their Relatives – Natural History and Captive Care

[…]to observe your pet’s nocturnal activities.  Under-tank heaters should be used to create a warm basking surface for Sand and Rubber Boas (these heaters do little to warm air, however). Provide your snake with the largest home possible, so that a thermal gradient (areas of different temperatures) can be established.  […]
Read more » Boa Constrictors and their Relatives – Natural History and Captive Care

Has Anyone Observed This?….. Madagascar and Standing’s Day Geckos (Phelsuma madagascariensis grandis, P. m. madagascariensis, P. standingi) maintain excellent health and reproduce without a UVB source

It is well known that many species of lizard, turtle and crocodilian require ultraviolet light of a specific wavelength (290-310 nanometers) in order to synthesize Vitamin D3.  This vitamin, in turn, allows the reptiles to make use of the calcium in their diets.  Such reptiles (which generally bask in the […]
Read more » Has Anyone Observed This?….. Madagascar and Standing’s Day Geckos (Phelsuma madagascariensis grandis, P. m. madagascariensis, P. standingi) maintain excellent health and reproduce without a UVB source

The Muggar or Marsh Crocodile – Encounters in Captivity and the Wild – Part 1

[…]in captivity. Video of a wild Marsh Crocodile, Sloth Bears and other creatures.   Marsh Crocodile Basking image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by Karunakar […]
Read more » The Muggar or Marsh Crocodile – Encounters in Captivity and the Wild – Part 1

Leopard Gecko or Bearded Dragon? Choosing the Best Pet Lizard

[…]gallon (larger is preferable) Bearded Dragon: 30 gallon Temperature Leopard Gecko: 72-85 F, with a basking site of 88 F Bearded Dragon: 75-88 F, with a basking site of 95-110 F Lizard Diet Leopard Geckos are carnivorous. Young Bearded Dragons feed largely upon insects, adding plants to the diet as […]
Read more » Leopard Gecko or Bearded Dragon? Choosing the Best Pet Lizard

Keeping Frogs and Toads as Pets – Creating a Terrarium and Best Amphibian Care Products

[…]by a lack of “decorations”. An aquarium half-filled with water and provisioned with a turtle basking platform and a submersible filter will suit Fire-Bellied Toads, American Green Frogs and other semi-aquatic species. African Clawed Frogs, Dwarf Clawed Frogs and Surinam Toads do not need a land area, but do best […]
Read more » Keeping Frogs and Toads as Pets – Creating a Terrarium and Best Amphibian Care Products

The Green Iguana (Iguana iguana) on the Venezuelan Llanos – Notes from the Field

[…]reason that an iguana might choose to run or fight rather than swim – a huge green anaconda basking at the surface. Today we can see ample evidence of the green iguanas’ adaptability right here in the USA – feral animals live in areas ranging from beaches to suburban gardens […]
Read more » The Green Iguana (Iguana iguana) on the Venezuelan Llanos – Notes from the Field

The 10 Best Ways to Prepare for a Career in Herpetology – Part 1

It is said that people who make careers of their passions never work a day in their lives…those of us who have turned our hobbies into livelihoods are indeed fortunate.  The following ideas have helped me along the way – I hope they are of some use to you. Speak […]
Read more » The 10 Best Ways to Prepare for a Career in Herpetology – Part 1

The Western Hognose Snake – a Toad Specialist That Can do without Toads

[…]snakes and reptile eggs. In one study, they were found to be a major predator on Pacific pond turtle nests. Those I’ve kept have done very well on small mice and quail eggs. Other Interesting Facts This snake’s upturned snout (modified rostral scale) assists in digging for fossorial prey such […]
Read more » The Western Hognose Snake – a Toad Specialist That Can do without Toads

Cuban and Hispaniolan Green Anole Care: Keeping the “Other” Green Anoles

[…]radiation as well. Heat The ambient, or average, air temperature should range from 82-87 F, with a basking spot of 92-95 F.  Incandescent bulbs should be used to maintain these temperatures.  Temperatures can dip to the low 70’s after dark.  A ceramic heater or red/black reptile “night bulb” can be […]
Read more » Cuban and Hispaniolan Green Anole Care: Keeping the “Other” Green Anoles

Lizard Breeding Made Easy – The Live Bearing Swifts or Spiny Lizards – Part 1

[…]captives if kept properly.  Captive essentials for most include a larger than average enclosure, basking sites of 95-100 F, abundant UVA and UVB, and a diet comprised of a wide variety of invertebrates.  Please write in for information on the care of individual species. Courtship and Breeding When in breeding […]
Read more » Lizard Breeding Made Easy – The Live Bearing Swifts or Spiny Lizards – Part 1

My Animal Collection: How a Herpetologist Keeps American Toads and Related Species, Part III

[…]other native treefrogs and land snails. Assuming that space permits the establishment of a warm basking area (without over-heating the toads), you can also house a number of small reptiles with American toads. I have had kept them with 5-lined skinks, Italian wall lizards, green anoles, DeKay’s (brown) snakes, ring-necked […]
Read more » My Animal Collection: How a Herpetologist Keeps American Toads and Related Species, Part III

The Chuckwalla – a Hardy, Personable Candidate for the Desert Terrarium – Part 2

[…]Tortoise Pellets into the salad as well. A Unique Defense Chuckwallas spend a good deal of time basking on rocks to achieve their preferred body temperature of 100 F. They rarely forage far from a rock pile, into which they retreat when threatened.  Once secure within a crevice, the Chuckwalla […]
Read more » The Chuckwalla – a Hardy, Personable Candidate for the Desert Terrarium – Part 2

Why Do My Crickets Keep Dying?

[…]almost anything. In the Reptile Room at our store we feed a special mixture of oatmeal, fish food, turtle food & dog food crumbs.   They need to drink: Crickets aren’t the smartest creatures, and if you put a dish of water in their enclosure they might drown. I prefer to use […]

Giant Day Gecko Care and Natural History

[…]these should be arranged both horizontally and vertically.   Be sure to establish plenty of basking sites near heat and UVB bulbs, as dominant individuals may exclude others from these important areas.   Substrate A mix of potting soil, cypress mulch and sphagnum moss is ideal.   Light Giant Day […]

Reptile and Amphibian Conservation in the USA – 2012 Update

[…]are the Ozark Hellbender, Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake, Boreal Toad and 20 freshwater turtle species. The CBD has also filed a 300 page report seeking some form of protection for 8 snakes, 24 salamanders, 3 toads, 4 frogs, 6 turtles and 10 lizards. Other Herp Success Stories Habitat Protection A review […]
Read more » Reptile and Amphibian Conservation in the USA – 2012 Update

Tortoise Observations – Feisty Terrier No Match for African Spurred (Spur –Thighed) Tortoise, Geochelone sulcata

[…]ways of North Africa’s massive Spurred Tortoise are well known to private and professional turtle keepers.  Inquisitive and alert, these arid country natives are quick to become possessive of their territories and, sometimes, owners.  They adjust rapidly to changes in their environments – two 80 pounders that I kept in […]
Read more » Tortoise Observations – Feisty Terrier No Match for African Spurred (Spur –Thighed) Tortoise, Geochelone sulcata

Breeding the Green (Plumed) Basilisk and Related Species – Part 1

[…]other nutritional problems. A powerful UVB-emitting bulb is essential.  If possible, arrange the basking site to be within 6-12 inches of the bulb. Males are intensely territorial…even in huge terrariums, it is usually impossible to keep 2 males together.  One male may be housed with 2-3 females. The Nest Site […]
Read more » Breeding the Green (Plumed) Basilisk and Related Species – Part 1

Venomous Snakes: Care and Habits of the Cottonmouth or Water Moccasin

[…]practice” in some places…not much of a challenge, given their size and immobility when basking, I imagine!   Longevity Zoo specimens have reached at least age 24; several under my care were in their late teens, and still full of spunk. Longevity in the wild has not been well-documented, as […]
Read more » Venomous Snakes: Care and Habits of the Cottonmouth or Water Moccasin

Chameleons as Pets – an Overview of their Natural History and Captive Care

[…]breeding. Interestingly, Panther Chameleons (Furcifer pardalis) have been shown to modify their basking behavior in response to the Vitamin D3 content of their food; please see this article for details. Heat Ideal air temperatures vary widely among the different species, with many preferring cooler temperatures than might be expected.  An […]
Read more » Chameleons as Pets – an Overview of their Natural History and Captive Care

The Corn Snake and its Relatives – Natural History and Captive Care

[…]as all snakes are escape artists. Stout, well-anchored branches or rock ledges can be added as basking sites. A hide box should always be available, as even long-term pets will be stressed if forced to remain in the open. Substrate Newspapers or washable terrarium liners work well as substrates.  Douglas […]
Read more » The Corn Snake and its Relatives – Natural History and Captive Care

The Green Anole – Important Supplies for Anoles and other Lizard Pets

[…]Peace Lilies and other sturdy house plants will be well-used by these little gymnasts. Basking sites should be plentiful, as dominant individuals will exclude others from these important areas.  Driftwood, Java Wood, vines and tree branches will all be used by anoles and other lizards. Substrate The substrate should be […]
Read more » The Green Anole – Important Supplies for Anoles and other Lizard Pets

Interesting Facts and the Care of the Senegal Chameleon

[…]well-hydrated via frequent spraying or the use of a mister.  An ambient temperature of 76F with a basking site of 85F and a nighttime dip to 69-70F suits them well. Breeding If you are lucky enough to obtain a breeding pair, you’ll have your hands full…healthy females may lay 20-70 […]
Read more » Interesting Facts and the Care of the Senegal Chameleon

Small Boa Constrictors as Pets – Island Races of the Common Boa

[…] The ambient temperature should range from 78-86 F.  Incandescent bulbs can be used to create a basking site of 90-95 F. Ceramic heaters or red/black reptile night bulbs  may be employed to provide heat after dark. If needed, under-tank heaters can be used to further warm the basking surface. Provide […]
Read more » Small Boa Constrictors as Pets – Island Races of the Common Boa

Hognose Snake: Breeding and Care for the Madagascar Giant

[…]fare best at a temperature range of 80-85 F. An incandescent bulb should be used to create a basking spot of 90 F.   Large enclosures are necessary if a thermal gradient (areas of different temperatures) is to be established. Thermal gradients, critical to good health, allow snakes to regulate […]
Read more » Hognose Snake: Breeding and Care for the Madagascar Giant

Substrates and Shelters for Animals Prone to Intestinal Blockages

[…]recall finding a wild anaconda with a mouth injury suffered while trying to swallow a side-necked turtle (Podocnemis vogli), another that had a white-tailed deer, antlers and all, stuck in its throat, and a 5’10” yellow rat snake that tried to down a deer fawn on St. Catherine’s Island, off […]
Read more » Substrates and Shelters for Animals Prone to Intestinal Blockages

My Bearded Dragon is Not Eating: What to Do

[…]its feeding, and will impair digestion. An incandescent spotlight bulb should be used to create a basking site of 100-110 F. The rest of the terrarium should be kept at a temperature range of 72-85 F.   Like all desert-dwelling diurnal lizards, Bearded Dragons require high UVB levels. If a […]

Feeding Captive Savannah Monitors (Varanus exanthematicus) and Black and White Tegus (Tupinambis merianae): Zoo Med’s Canned Tegu and Monitor Diet

[…]me to believe that, at least in llanos habitat, these lizards consume far more large insects, turtle eggs and frogs than rodents.  Mammals are taken when available, mainly as carrion or unearthed rodent nests. I have kept tegus for lengthy periods on rodent-based diets but now counsel more variety…I suggest […]
Read more » Feeding Captive Savannah Monitors (Varanus exanthematicus) and Black and White Tegus (Tupinambis merianae): Zoo Med’s Canned Tegu and Monitor Diet

The World’s Most Colorful Snake: 100 Flower Rat Snake Care

[…]early morning and evenings. An ambient temperature of 70-77 F should be established, along with a basking temperature of 78 F; a dip to 68 F at night may be beneficial.   Some keepers indicate that their snakes show a decided preference for subdued lighting.   Shedding difficulties often occur […]
Read more » The World’s Most Colorful Snake: 100 Flower Rat Snake Care

Reptile Lighting – Combo Units for UVB Lights, UVA, Heat and Night Bulbs

[…]most useful.  This lets us easily pair UVB and heat bulbs, assuring greater UVB exposure for basking reptiles.  The creation of thermal gradients is also simplified.  Thermal gradients, which allow animals to move from warm to cooler areas, are critical to good health. The Zoo Med Mini Combo Deep Dome […]
Read more » Reptile Lighting – Combo Units for UVB Lights, UVA, Heat and Night Bulbs

Chameleon Diets – The Best Foods for Pet Chameleons

[…]a surprising amount of vegetation in its diet.   Further Reading Collecting Insects Chameleon Basking Behavior Veiled Chameleon Care Dwarf Chameleon Care Chameleon in Madagascar image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by Bernard Gagnon Tanzanian Chameleon image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by Ales.Kocourek Ground Chameleon image referenced […]
Read more » Chameleon Diets – The Best Foods for Pet Chameleons

Wild Caught Invertebrates as Reptile and Amphibian Food: Pesticide Concerns – Part 1

[…]that I have kept on such diets have reproduced and even set or approached longevity records (musk turtle, still alive at age 40; marine toads, 20+ years; African clawed frog, 19 years; weather loach, 19 years). My experience is echoed by many of the prominent hobbyists and herpetologists with whom […]
Read more » Wild Caught Invertebrates as Reptile and Amphibian Food: Pesticide Concerns – Part 1

Preparing Your Amphibian and Reptile Collection for Autumn and Winter

[…]animals I’ve observed closely in this regard (i.e. Eastern Painted Turtles, Indian Gharials, Box Turtles) lose little if any weight even when temperatures remain high and the animals maintain near-normal activity.  Please see the article below (Bearded Dragon Brumation) for details. Fall is an ideal time to expose animals to […]
Read more » Preparing Your Amphibian and Reptile Collection for Autumn and Winter

Keeping the USA’s Longest Snake: Eastern Indigo Snakes as Pets

[…]and fare best in a temperature range of 70-78 F.  An incandescent bulb should be used to create a basking spot of 85 F. Large enclosures are necessary if a thermal gradient (areas of different temperatures) is to be established.  Thermal gradients, critical to good health, allow snakes to regulate […]
Read more » Keeping the USA’s Longest Snake: Eastern Indigo Snakes as Pets

The Season Has Changed, Should Your Reptile Bulbs?

[…]temperature requirements will be slightly different. For example, a rat snake only needs a basking temperature of about 85 degrees, where as a bearded dragon prefers to have one around 110 degrees.   Know the heat output of the bulb that you are currently using Most manufacturers post a chart […]
Read more » The Season Has Changed, Should Your Reptile Bulbs?

Keeping Snakes in Naturalistic Terrariums

[…]Staten Island Zoo – simple, easily cleaned enclosures that provide a secure retreat and basking site. Such became, and largely remains, the standard approach to snake-keeping in the USA. European zookeepers and hobbyists, by contrast, favor planted, naturalistic exhibits, and it was to these I gravitated. Although not nearly as […]

The Natural History and Captive Care of the Black (Eastern) Ratsnake, Elaphe (obsoleta) alleghaniensis

[…]may lead to respiratory and skin infections. If space permits, a stout branch for climbing and basking should be included. American hobbyists favor a fairly “sterile” set up for rat snakes, but in Europe they are commonly kept in large, planted exhibits. Black ratsnakes take well to these, and, while […]
Read more » The Natural History and Captive Care of the Black (Eastern) Ratsnake, Elaphe (obsoleta) alleghaniensis

The Best Pet Tortoise – Greek Tortoise and Golden Greek Tortoise Care

[…]a bulb designed for desert-dwelling reptiles (i.e. the Zoo Med 10.0 Bulb), and position the basking site within 6-12 inches of it.  Mercury vapor bulbs broadcast UVB over greater distances, and provide beneficial UVA radiation as well.  UVA, which may assist in promoting various natural behaviors, is also supplied by […]
Read more » The Best Pet Tortoise – Greek Tortoise and Golden Greek Tortoise Care

Breeding Brazilian, Columbian and other Rainbow Boas in Captivity

[…]the cool period, temperatures should gradually (over a 10 day period) be raised to 78-85 F, with a basking site of 92 F.  Females give birth 6-8 months after copulation, and produce an average of 10 young per litter (the range is 1 to 25).   Newborn Rainbow Boas are large […]
Read more » Breeding Brazilian, Columbian and other Rainbow Boas in Captivity

The Natural History and Captive Care of the Red-Tailed Ratsnake (Red-Tailed Racer), Gonyosoma oxycephalum, and Jansen’s Ratsnake (Sulawesi Ratsnake, Black-Tailed Ratsnake) – G. jansenii – Part 2

[…]bred after being subjected to a 3 month period at 70 F, during which time they had access to a basking site of 76 F.  Given their wide distribution in the wild, I suspect that these snakes are quite adaptable in this regard, or that populations vary in their breeding […]
Read more » The Natural History and Captive Care of the Red-Tailed Ratsnake (Red-Tailed Racer), Gonyosoma oxycephalum, and Jansen’s Ratsnake (Sulawesi Ratsnake, Black-Tailed Ratsnake) – G. jansenii – Part 2

Introducing the Fire Salamander, Salamandra salamandra: The Most “Personable” of All Amphibians?

  Those who keep reptiles, especially turtles and lizards, are often of the opinion that amphibians make rather unresponsive pets.  True, a number of frogs and toads “come to life” at feeding time, but by and large amphibians are somewhat more retiring than are most reptiles.  This is especially true […]
Read more » Introducing the Fire Salamander, Salamandra salamandra: The Most “Personable” of All Amphibians?

The Natural History and Captive Care of the Trans-Pecos Ratsnake – Part 2

[…]are not exposed to temperature extremes.  Provide a thermal gradient ranging from 74-85 F, with a basking site of 90 F. As these snakes are largely nocturnal, night-viewing bulbs can be used to both observe and warm them after dark; ceramic heaters and heat cables are also useful at night. […]
Read more » The Natural History and Captive Care of the Trans-Pecos Ratsnake – Part 2

Black Rough Neck Monitor Care and History

[…]a wide temperature gradient, such as 75-95 F; a dip to 70-73 F at night may be beneficial. The basking temperature should be kept at 120-140 F; some keepers go as high as 150F.  Incandescent bulbs http://www.thatpetplace.com/spot-day-white-bulbs may be used by day; ceramic heaters http://bitly.com/NSUMSq or red/black reptile “night bulbs” […]

The Green Anaconda – Natural History of the World’s Largest Snake

[…]including a 60 pound white-tailed deer, a 5-foot-long spectacled caiman and a large side-necked turtle. An (happily unsuccessful!) attack on a co-worker was almost certainly a feeding response and not defense-oriented. Dangers from Predators and Prey Young Anacondas are eaten by wading birds, tegus, caimans, turtles, other Anacondas and similarly-sized […]
Read more » The Green Anaconda – Natural History of the World’s Largest Snake

Assisting Snakes During “Dry Sheds” and other Skin Shedding (Ecdysis) Related Problems: Soaking and Commercial Shedding Aids

[…]such as the ribbon snake pictured here, should always have access to a large pool and dry basking sites (even highly aquatic species are prone to fungal infections if unable to dry off). The leucistic Burmese python pictured below is over 20 feet long and nearing 21 years of age.  […]
Read more » Assisting Snakes During “Dry Sheds” and other Skin Shedding (Ecdysis) Related Problems: Soaking and Commercial Shedding Aids

Breeding White’s Treefrogs and White-Lipped Treefrogs – Part 1

[…]water and provisioned with live floating plants (i.e. water hyacinth, water lettuce, pothos) and basking platforms.  Use an aquarium heater  to warm the water to 82-85F, and add a florescent bulb to encourage plant and algae growth.  I recommend the Reptisun 2.0  bulb, as its UVB output is ideal for […]
Read more » Breeding White’s Treefrogs and White-Lipped Treefrogs – Part 1

The Natural History and Captive Care of Newts – Part 1

[…]interacting with tank-mates. Floating plants (i.e. water hyacinth) serve well as resting areas…Turtle Docks and cork bark should be provided for this purpose as well. Diet Reptomin Select-A-Food can form the basis of the diet…I’ve used the original Reptomin Food Sticks for many years with great results.  This should be […]
Read more » The Natural History and Captive Care of Newts – Part 1

Cold Snap in Florida Affects Introduced (i.e. Burmese Pythons) and Native Herps

[…]Florida.  This has important conservation implications – someone who picks up an Eastern Box Turtle in North Carolina and releases in NY may be consigning it to an early demise. Fishes on Tropical Fish Farms, native fishes and crayfishes have also expired in record numbers this year.  Please check out […]
Read more » Cold Snap in Florida Affects Introduced (i.e. Burmese Pythons) and Native Herps

Meet the Green Frog – Typical Pond Frog of the USA – Part 3

[…]on the waters surface, waiting to launch an attack on low flying Dragonflies and other insects. Turtle Docks make fine land areas. Light and Heat Green Frogs spend a good deal of time in sunny locations, so I provide a Low Output UVB Bulb. Average room temperatures suit them well…normal […]
Read more » Meet the Green Frog – Typical Pond Frog of the USA – Part 3

Professional Herpetological Organizations and Journals – Part 1

[…]societies since childhood, and continue to be involved with several today.  A few, such as the NY Turtle and Tortoise Society, nicely serve both professional herpetologists and lay people…but whatever their leanings, all are of immense value.  Today I’d like to highlight some professional groups and journals that are open […]
Read more » Professional Herpetological Organizations and Journals – Part 1

Breeding White’s Treefrogs and White-Lipped Treefrogs – Part 2

[…]a Reptisun 2.0 bulb (please see Part I of this article). The plants, and a gently sloping reptile basking platform will provide the metamorphs with easy egress from the water. The Young Frogs (Metamorphs) Rearing a large number of froglets can be quite a challenge. Overcrowding, especially in situations of […]
Read more » Breeding White’s Treefrogs and White-Lipped Treefrogs – Part 2

Chameleons as Pets: Breeding Senegal Chameleons

[…]Chameleons choose prey in accordance with their nutritional needs, and that other species regulate basking time (under UVB) in tune with their circulating Vitamin D level. This is important research that bears directly on our ability to keep and breed this fascinating lizard…please see the articles linked below, and post […]
Read more » Chameleons as Pets: Breeding Senegal Chameleons

Tortoise Diets: Mediterranean Species and Russian (Horsfield’s) Tortoises

[…]not be able to properly metabolize calcium or digest other nutrients unless provided with a warm basking site and high levels of UVB (I suggest either the Zoo Med 10.0 or a mercury vapor bulb). Further Reading For more information on tortoise care, toxic plants and growing food for reptiles, […]
Read more » Tortoise Diets: Mediterranean Species and Russian (Horsfield’s) Tortoises

The Natural History and Captive Care of the Brazilian Rainbow Boa

[…]longevity approaches 25 years.  Ambient temperature should be maintained at 80-85 F, with a basking site of 90 F.  Temperatures can be reduced to 75-80 F at night. Boas do not require UVB light, but may benefit from the provision of UVA.  The Zoo Med Halogen Bulb  provides UVA and […]
Read more » The Natural History and Captive Care of the Brazilian Rainbow Boa

Choosing the Ideal Substrate for Reptiles, Amphibians and Invertebrates – Part 1

[…]Softshell Turtles to suffer fatal wounds from concrete-bottomed exhibits, and even hard-shelled turtles may abrade their plastrons while climbing onto rough basking sites. Ability to be Swallowed: the potential for injury from ingested substrate is becoming well known.  However, the problem is not an easy one to address.  Especially confusing […]
Read more » Choosing the Ideal Substrate for Reptiles, Amphibians and Invertebrates – Part 1

The Natural History of the Leopard Tortoise – Part 1

[…]of the female and to food availability.  The incubation period is among the longest know for any turtle, and can exceed 18 months during drought years.     Further Reading Tortoise farming, while a god idea in theory, does not always work out very well.  Please see this report on […]
Read more » The Natural History of the Leopard Tortoise – Part 1

Feeding African Clawed Frogs – the Two Best Diets

[…]and treats that can be offered on an occasional basis include crickets, waxworms and any aquatic turtle pellet. Live Food Diet This diet is the reverse of the above – approximately 75% live/natural food and 25% Reptomin.  As wide a variety of live prey as possible should be used, but […]
Read more » Feeding African Clawed Frogs – the Two Best Diets

Salmonella and Pet African Dwarf Clawed Frogs – Unraveling the Story

[…]outside a Komodo Dragon exhibit and then eating (without washing, of course….). The Frog-Turtle Connection That Red-Eared Sliders and Dwarf Clawed Frogs are often associated with Salmonella outbreaks is not surprising…both are bred commercially, often under the crowded, unsanitary conditions that favor bacterial growth and transmission. In the situation most […]
Read more » Salmonella and Pet African Dwarf Clawed Frogs – Unraveling the Story

The Natural History and Care of Newts – Japanese and Chinese Fire-bellied Newts

[…]aquarium for adults can contain fairly deep water with floating cork bark or a plastic basking platform as a land area. They do not wander extensively on land or require land-based shelters, being content to float around on cork bark while they rest.  They show to their best advantage in tanks […]
Read more » The Natural History and Care of Newts – Japanese and Chinese Fire-bellied Newts

Keeping the World’s Largest Tarantula: a Zoo Keeper’s Experiences

[…]logs, tree stumps and other cover. Several of the burrowing species I’ve cared for have used turtle huts and similar structures as starting points for their burrows. These and other caves should also be available for use until the spider constructs its own retreat.   Some keepers bury cork bark […]
Read more » Keeping the World’s Largest Tarantula: a Zoo Keeper’s Experiences

The Natural History and Captive Husbandry of the Taiwan Beauty Snake or Chinese Ratsnake, Orthriophis (formerly “Elaphe”) taeniurus friesei – Part II

[…]Bright Spotlight, which will supply both heat and UVA radiation. A temperature of 80 F at the basking site will suffice – Taiwan beauty snakes do not seem to seek out the higher temperatures favored by some other tropical species. The ambient air temperature should fall 74 and 78 F. […]
Read more » The Natural History and Captive Husbandry of the Taiwan Beauty Snake or Chinese Ratsnake, Orthriophis (formerly “Elaphe”) taeniurus friesei – Part II

2014 is Named “The Year of the Salamander”

[…]by Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (PARC), and was preceded the Year of the Turtle, Snake and Lizard. This year, PARC will be joined by the Center for Conservation Biology, the Association of Reptile and Amphibian Veterinarians, Amphibian Ark, and other notables.  In addition to field research and captive […]
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The Best Humidity Gauges for Reptile, Amphibian and Invert Habitats

[…]glass via suction cups, allowing for easy movement so that various areas of the terrarium (cave, basking site, etc.) can be monitored.  I find the thin, 59 inch-long wires connected to the probes to be especially valuable.  In smaller enclosures, the wires can be rolled up and secured with a […]
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Rat Snake Care: the Russian Ratsnake – Large, Bold and Beautiful

[…]be provided.   Ambient temperatures should be maintained in the range of 70-76 F, with a basking site of 82 F.   Breeding Captive breeding, although far from regular in the past, is becoming more common. A 3-4 month cooling off period at 50-52 F will stimulate reproduction.   Clutches […]
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Frog Leg Trade Kills Billions of Frogs Annually and Threatens Species’ Survival

[…]plight of the world’s amphibians.  NYC’s participation, sponsored by such groups as the NY Turtle and Tortoise Society and Save the Frogs, highlighted local issues, including the fact that an ever-popular eatery, Nathan’s Famous onConey Island, continues to serve frog legs. The Current Situation in the USA I’m sorry to say that […]
Read more » Frog Leg Trade Kills Billions of Frogs Annually and Threatens Species’ Survival

Rainbow Snake Care: Keeping a Colorful but Difficult Aquatic Snake

[…]be placed in the water so that it can shelter below. An ambient temperature of 75-80 F and a basking temperature of 85-88 F should be established.   Diet Wild Rainbow Snakes seem to feed almost exclusively upon American Eels.   Other fishes, and aquatic salamanders such as amphiumas and sirens, […]
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St. Lucia Racer, World’s Rarest Snake (Population 11) is Rediscovered

[…]and endeavored to become familiar with as many as possible.  In time, I tagged Leatherback Sea Turtles on St. Croix, collected Bahaman Brown Racers, Alsophis vudii, on several islands, and vowed to find again a large, flying Mole Cricket that once stopped me in my tracks on St. Lucia.  Unfortunately, […]
Read more » St. Lucia Racer, World’s Rarest Snake (Population 11) is Rediscovered

Your First Pet Lizard: a Checklist of Things to Consider

[…]you can easily limit costs. A Flying Gecko needs only a 10 gallon aquarium with a low-wattage basking bulb, and a diet of small live insects…much less expensive than a 6 foot-long Water Monitor kept in a room-sized cage supplied year-round with powerful heat lamps and UVB bulbs and feeding […]
Read more » Your First Pet Lizard: a Checklist of Things to Consider

Snake Lizards – Legless Lizard-eaters in the Wild and Captivity

[…]The New Guinea Snake Lizards under my care thrived at an ambient temperature of 82-85 F, with a basking site of 96 F and exposure to UVB. The diet was comprised of Brown Anoles (Anolis sagrei) and House Geckos (Hemidactylus spp.) that had been collected inFlorida (where both are introduced).  […]
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Your First Pet Snake: A Checklist of Things to Consider

[…]easily limit costs. A Garter Snake needs only a 20 gallon aquarium with (in winter) a low-wattage basking bulb, and a diet of minnows and earthworms…much less expensive than a 6 foot-long Boa Constrictor kept in a custom-made cage heated year-round with powerful bulbs and feeding upon pre-killed rats.   […]
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World’s Largest Snake – Finding and Keeping a Giant Reticulated Python

[…]being well-seasoned, I automatically deducted 25-50% from the size of any “biggest snake-turtle-croc” stories that came my way.  But then grainy photos arrived by mail, and the snake depicted was, if not the largest I’d seen, impressive.  Whether by design or bad luck, the photos did not allow us to accurately […]
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Breeding Leopard Geckos

[…]Reduce the day/night cycle to 10 hour day and 14 hours night at the same time.  Turning off basking lights and moving the tank may be used in the early stages.  For the actual 5 week cooling off period, you’ll need a location that maintains 50 F.   Basements and attics […]

Providing Clean Water to Reptiles and Amphibians – The Nitrogen Cycle

[…]Bacteria and Nutrafin Cycle.  Micro Lift Bacterial Water Balancer, specifically formulated for turtles, should also be considered.   You can also help the process along by introducing filter material from a well-conditioned tank and, where conditions permit, by using “live rock” and “live sand” (please post below for further info). […]
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My Leopard Gecko Is Not Eating: What To Do

[…]for you to establish a thermal gradient (small terrariums tend to remain at the temperature of the basking site).   And, no matter how well-adjusted or bold your pet may be, it’s important to provide a dark, secure cave or other shelter.  Geckos forced to remain exposed often cease feeding. […]

The World’s Largest Frog – Working with the Massive Goliath Frog

[…]not even the enormous African Bullfrogs and Marine Toads (or, for that matter, Leatherback Turtles!) that I had already handled prepared me for the sight of that amazing animal. The Goliath Frog Exhibit I first started working with Goliath Frogs in 1983, at which time we knew little about their […]
Read more » The World’s Largest Frog – Working with the Massive Goliath Frog

Indian Sand Boa Care: Keeping the World’s Largest Sand Boa

[…]Sand Boas do well at an ambient temperature range of 78-85 F, and with a basking temperature of 90-95 F. As they rarely bask on the surface, a sub-tank heat pad should also be employed along with an incandescent bulb. General Care In common with other snakes hailing from arid […]
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Snake Conservation in 2013 – The “Year of the Snake” Begins

[…]is spearheaded by Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation, and was preceded the Year of the Turtle and the Year of the Lizard.  PARC will be joined by the Center for Conservation Biology, the Orianne Society and other notables (please click here for a complete list).  In addition to field […]
Read more » Snake Conservation in 2013 – The “Year of the Snake” Begins

How to Feed Insect-Eating Pet Lizards – the Best Live Foods

[…]be offered on occasion, but long-term use has been linked to health problems in certain aquatic turtles. I have found crayfishes (which can be purchased or collected) to be a valuable food item for a wide variety of lizards. I remove the claws, just to be on the safe side. […]
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Anaconda Attacks – Notes from a Study of Wild Snakes in Venezuela

[…]observed included, among other animals, a 60 pound deer, Spectacled Caimans, a large side-necked turtle, a Red-Footed Tortoise, wading birds, fish and other Anacondas.  Please watch for my future article on this topic. The World’s Largest Snake The extinct, Anaconda-like Titanoboa may have reached 43 feet in length and weighed […]
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Green Tree Python Care & Natural History

[…]behavior. Heat Incandescent bulbs should be used to maintain a temperature range of 78-85 F, and a basking spot of 88 F. Night-time temperatures should not dip below 70-72 F. A ceramic heater or red/black reptile “night bulb” can be used to provide heat after dark. Humidity These rainforest denizens […]

2012’s New Reptile and Amphibian Species – Snakes, Frogs and Lizards, Which is Your Favorite?

[…]tadpoles that eat bark, a fanged frog that ambushes birds, large, colorful monitors, and a new Map Turtle from the USA.     Further Reading New Leopard Frog Discovered in NYC Cambodian Kukri Chacoan Blunt-Headed Snake New Australian Skinks Yellow Dyer Rain Frog     Sibon nebulatus image referenced from […]
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Horned Frogs as Pets – Designing an Ideal Terrarium for “Pac Man Frogs”

The beautifully-colored and charmingly-pugnacious Argentine Horned Frog, Ceratophrys ornata, may be the world’s most popular amphibian pet.  No matter how many rare and wonderful frogs I encounter, I always save a place for Horned Frogs in the zoo exhibits I manage and in my personal collection.  Despite their size (females […]
Read more » Horned Frogs as Pets – Designing an Ideal Terrarium for “Pac Man Frogs”

How To Breed Green Anoles and Raise the Youngsters

[…]During the cooling off period, daytime temperatures can be kept at 81-83 F, with a warmer basking site available.  At night, temperatures should be allowed to dip to 62-68 F (60-65 F if your anoles originated in the northern portion of the range).  The daytime light cycle should gradually be […]
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Captive Care of Latin American Ratsnakes – The Tiger Ratsnake

[…]can be allowed to drop to 75 F or so.  A spotlight-type bulb should be used to create a basking spot of 90 F. Large enclosures are necessary if a thermal gradient (areas of different temperatures) is to be established.  Thermal gradients, critical to good health, allow snakes to regulate […]
Read more » Captive Care of Latin American Ratsnakes – The Tiger Ratsnake

The Best Small Snake Pet? Suprise! The Brown Snake

[…]bulbs or ceramic heaters should be used to maintain an ambient temperature of 72-78 F and a basking temperature of 83-85 F.   Both humid and dry areas should be provided. A cave stocked with moist sphagnum moss makes an ideal moist retreat.   Although UVB light is not essential, […]
Read more » The Best Small Snake Pet? Suprise! The Brown Snake

Vampire Crab Care: 2 New Land Crab Species Found Among Pet Trade Animals

[…]freeze dried shrimp, frozen and flake foods marketed for tropical fishes, moist algae tablets and turtle chow, small live and dead crickets, black worms and other invertebrates, and some fruits and vegetables. Calcium blocks will be used by some species, and powdered calcium should be mixed into their food as […]
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Python Eats Crocodile – Tales of Big Snake Eating

[…]also called to a site where one was said to be swallowing a large Savanna Side-Necked Turtle, Podocnemis unifilis.  The 14-15 foot long snake had given up or been outwitted by the time I arrived, but she bore long, narrow wounds along the neck – the result, perhaps, of trying […]
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Thanksgiving at the Zoo: The Giant Appetites of Snakes, Frogs, and Moles

[…]a 5-foot-long Spectacled Caiman, a large Red-footed Tortoise, and a hefty Giant Side-necked Turtle.   The world’s other giant constrictors – Reticulated, Burmese, Indian and African Rock Pythons – are also champion diners. The largest meal I’ve been able to track down in a published source is a 130 pound […]
Read more » Thanksgiving at the Zoo: The Giant Appetites of Snakes, Frogs, and Moles

Rosy Boa and Sand Boa Captive Care and Natural History

[…] The ambient temperature of 78-85 F is ideal.  An incandescent bulb should be used to create a basking spot of 90-95 F.  Heat pads placed below the aquarium work well for Sand Boas, which rarely if ever emerge to bask.  Heat pads do not effectively warm the air, and […]
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Pet Lizards – Fascinating Species for those who keep Reptiles as Pets

[…]believe. While we’ve come a long way from when they were thought to thrive on sugar water and “turtle food” (ant pupae), many new keepers still misunderstand their needs. Green Anoles are prone to stress-related ailments, and should not be handled unnecessarily.  Although small in size, they are very active…a […]
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Geckos – Setting Up a Terrarium, Gecko Supplies, and Gecko Facts

[…]temperatures vary widely among the different species.  Ambient temperatures of 75-82 F, with a basking spot of 88-92 F, will suit most. Incandescent bulbs should be used to maintain temperatures.  A ceramic heater or reptile night bulb can be employed after dark.  Leopard Geckos and other nocturnal species may also […]
Read more » Geckos – Setting Up a Terrarium, Gecko Supplies, and Gecko Facts
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