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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?

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 […]

Hot Weather Herp Tips – Summer’s Effect on Reptiles and Amphibians

[…]Bullfrogs, Water-Holding Frogs and Spadefoot Toads are among the champion “summer sleepers”. Turtles and Tortoises Despite a propensity for basking, tropical climes and deserts, Chelonians are not immune to temperature stress.  Some species, such as Big Headed and Bog Turtles, are known to favor rather cool temperatures. While they may […]
Read more » Hot Weather Herp Tips – Summer’s Effect on Reptiles and Amphibians

Barbour’s Map Turtle Care and Natural History

[…]than aquariums. Koi ponds sometimes contain shelves meant to hold plants; these work well as turtle basking areas. Outdoor housing is ideal, assuming that raccoons and other predators can be excluded.   Although highly aquatic, all map turtles need a dry surface on which to bask. Commercial turtle docks will […]
Read more » Barbour’s Map Turtle Care and Natural History

Spring Field Trips: Amphibians, Reptiles, Invertebrates, Birds

[…]turtle wrangler who hauled him out for closer inspection! Snappers are about as cold-tolerant as a turtle can be…several years ago I found one basking on February 16th. By mid-April, they are usually their normal feisty selves, ready and willing to do battle…not so this cold, old fellow.     […]
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Indian Sand Boa Care: Keeping the World’s Largest Sand Boa

[…]observed.   Heat Indian 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 […]
Read more » Indian Sand Boa Care: Keeping the World’s Largest Sand Boa

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

The Indigo Snake’s Less Expensive-Relative: Blacktail Cribo Care and Natural History

[…]array of creatures. Rodents, rabbits, snakes, birds and their eggs, lizards, frogs, fish, small turtles are large insects have been reported as being taken. I have first-hand experience with impressive biting power packed by most rodents, and find it amazing that Cribos do not utilize constriction, but merely grab and […]
Read more » The Indigo Snake’s Less Expensive-Relative: Blacktail Cribo Care and Natural History

Turtles and Tortoises: 5 You Should Never Keep as Pets

[…]often centered on the carapace, adds to the difficulties involved in keeping these unusual turtles.   Nile Softshell Turtle (Trionx triunguis) Although certain populations are in decline, this huge aquatic turtle has a large range, and seems to be doing well in some areas. Youngsters occasionally appear in the trade, […]
Read more » Turtles and Tortoises: 5 You Should Never Keep as Pets

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 […]
Read more » Vampire Crab Care: 2 New Land Crab Species Found Among Pet Trade Animals

Western Hognose Snake: Care, Color Morphs and Natural History

[…]east coast cousin, the Western Hognose takes toads, lizards, other snakes, rodents and the eggs of turtles, lizards, and birds with equal gusto.; locusts and other large invertebrates have also been reported as food items.  I recall one study in which this species was identified as the major nest predator […]
Read more » Western Hognose Snake: Care, Color Morphs and Natural History

The USA’s Only Native Rear-Fanged Vine Snake: Care and Natural History

[…]be located in a quiet area of the home. An ambient temperature range of 75- 80 F is ideal, with a basking site set at 88 F. Some keepers believe that low levels of UVB light and UVA exposure are beneficial to this and related species. Diet The natural diet […]
Read more » The USA’s Only Native Rear-Fanged Vine Snake: Care and Natural History

Asian Leaf Turtle Care and Conservation: A Zookeeper’s Thoughts

[…]China and forwarded to Florida (please see article linked below). Included among the Spotted Pond Turtles, Painted Terrapins, Spiny Turtles were a great many Asian Leaf Turtles (Cyclemys dentata). This impressive turtle had been a great favorite of mine ever since we first crossed paths decades earlier, during my time […]
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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

Rosy Boa or Colombian Red-Tailed Boa? Choosing the Best Snake Pet

[…]cage   Rosy Boa: 20-30 gallon terrarium   Temperature Colombian Boa: 75-85 F, with a basking site of 90 -95 F; basking bulb and sub-tank pad recommended.   Rosy Boa: 75-85 F, with a basking site of 90-95 F   Diet Food intake will vary among individuals and with temperature, […]
Read more » Rosy Boa or Colombian Red-Tailed Boa? Choosing the Best Snake Pet

Eastern Painted Turtle Care: Keeping the USA’s Most Beautiful Turtle

[…]than aquariums. Koi ponds sometimes contain shelves meant to hold plants; these work well as turtle basking areas. Outdoor housing is ideal, assuming that raccoons and other predators can be excluded.   Although highly aquatic, Painted Turtles need a dry surface on which to bask. Commercial turtle docks will suffice […]
Read more » Eastern Painted Turtle Care: Keeping the USA’s Most Beautiful Turtle

Monitor Lizards as Pets: Dumeril Monitor Care and Natural History

[…]hot and cooler areas. In small or poorly ventilated enclosures, the entire area soon takes on the basking site temperature.   Humidity Humidity should average 70-85%, but dry areas must be available. A commercial reptile mister will be helpful if your home is especially dry.   Light While there is […]
Read more » Monitor Lizards as Pets: Dumeril Monitor Care and Natural History

Rat Snake Care: the Russian Ratsnake – Large, Bold and Beautiful

[…]should 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.   […]
Read more » Rat Snake Care: the Russian Ratsnake – Large, Bold and Beautiful

Pet Newts: Spanish Ribbed Newt Care and Breeding

[…]out and rest. The water in their aquarium can be deep, provided that egress is simple…cork bark, turtle platforms, and floating live or plastic plants all serve well as resting spots.   Newts are perfectly suited to aquariums stocked with live plants, and spectacular displays can be easily arranged. Plants […]
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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

CITES Listing Sought for Snapping Turtles, 3 Softshells: Do You Agree?

[…]below.   The Scope of the Problem When I began looking into the mercury content of food trade turtles some years ago (very high, by the way!), Florida Softshell Turtles (Apalone ferox) dominated the NYC markets. Today, one more commonly sees the Chinese Softshell (Pelodiscus sinensis). Although rare within its […]
Read more » CITES Listing Sought for Snapping Turtles, 3 Softshells: Do You Agree?

East African Black Mud Turtle Care: a Herpetologist’s Thoughts

[…]raccoons and other predators can be excluded.   A dry basking surface is necessary. Commercial turtle docks and ramps work for smaller specimens, but large adults may sink anything that is not affixed to the glass with silicone adhesive. Cork bark wedged between the aquarium’s sides is another option.   […]
Read more » East African Black Mud Turtle Care: a Herpetologist’s Thoughts

The 5 Best Reptiles and Amphibians to Choose as Holiday Gifts

[…]equipment, and their care can be quite time consuming. One possible exception is the Common Musk Turtle and such relatives as the North American Mud Turtle. While not exactly “simple” to care for, they make excellent choices for someone set on turtle ownership. Maxing out at 5 inches or so, […]
Read more » The 5 Best Reptiles and Amphibians to Choose as Holiday Gifts

Sailfin Dragon Care and Conservation: a Zookeeper’s Notes

[…]cycle should be maintained.   Heat The ambient air temperature should range from 80-90 F, with a basking spot of 110-120 F; night-time temperatures can dip to 75 F.  Incandescent bulbs should be used to maintain these temperatures. Provide your pets with the largest enclosure possible, so that a varied […]
Read more » Sailfin Dragon Care and Conservation: a Zookeeper’s Notes

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

Reptiles and Amphibians in Outdoor Pens or Ponds: Preparing for Winter

[…]only left animals outdoors in bottomless pens, so that water does not pool.   Aquatic Turtles and Frogs Red-Eared Sliders, Painted Turtles, Green Frogs, American Bullfrogs and similar species usually overwinter underwater, beneath mud and leaf litter. Unless you are well-experienced or have expert guidance, I would not recommend trying […]
Read more » Reptiles and Amphibians in Outdoor Pens or Ponds: Preparing for Winter

My Experiences with Snake Necked Turtles in Zoos and at Home

[…]are snake-like in both length and striking speed, render the family unique among all the world’s turtles.   Description Snake Necked Turtles range from 6 to over 20 inches in length. Those with the most impressively-long necks are found in the genus Chelodina. Most of those native to Australia, New […]
Read more » My Experiences with Snake Necked Turtles in Zoos and at Home

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, […]
Read more » Rainbow Snake Care: Keeping a Colorful but Difficult Aquatic Snake

Corn Snake or Ball Python? Choosing the Best Snake Pet

[…]Snake: 20-55 gallon Ball Python: 30-55 gallon   Temperature Corn Snake: 75-82 F, with a basking site of 90 F Ball Python: 80-85 F, with a basking site of 90 F   Diet Food intake will vary among individuals and in tune with temperature, season, life cycle stage, and other […]
Read more » Corn Snake or Ball Python? Choosing the Best Snake Pet

American Museum of Natural History: A Visit to the Live Spider Exhibit

[…]My nephew readily tackles snakes exceeding his own length, but when I asked him to swim under a dock and capture this spider, he quickly replied “No way, man”!   Goliath Bird-Eating Tarantula: perhaps the world’s largest spider, this species is a favorite of private and professional spider keepers. Field […]
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Spotted Turtle Care: Is This Beauty the Perfect Small Turtle Pet?

[…]Spotted Turtle Care Products (please post below for further information)   Commercial turtle docks    Turtle filters   Zoo Med 10.0 UVB bulb   Mercury vapor bulbs   Incandescent (heat) bulbs   Aquatic turtle diets   Hi, my name is Frank Indiviglio. I’m a herpetologist, zoologist, and book author, recently […]
Read more » Spotted Turtle Care: Is This Beauty the Perfect Small Turtle Pet?

Bearded Dragon or Leopard Gecko? Comparing the Ownership Costs

[…]Bearded Dragons cost more.       Heat Bearded Dragon: Incandescent fixture and bulb for basking site Red/black bulb or ceramic heat emitter (night) Leopard Gecko:  Incandescent fixture and bulb for basking site Heat tape or ceramic heat emitter (night)   Verdict: Bearded Dragons require higher temperatures, but the cost […]
Read more » Bearded Dragon or Leopard Gecko? Comparing the Ownership Costs

Turtle or Tortoise – Which is the Best Reptile Pet for Me?

[…]receive many questions and complaints centering on the amount of work involved in keeping turtle aquarium water clean. Turtles are messy feeders, and very hard on water quality. Powerful filters help, but partial or total water changes will still be necessary (and filtration medium needs frequent replacement).   Land-dwelling tortoises […]
Read more » Turtle or Tortoise – Which is the Best Reptile Pet for Me?

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

Is a Red-Eared Slider a Good Pet? Read This Before Buying a Turtle

[…]the Slider’s lifestyle, good nature and hardiness, but do not grow quite as large. Common Musk Turtles, Eastern Mud Turtles and a number of their relatives are even smaller, and do not need a source of UVB radiation. All make great pets, and become quite responsive to people. There are […]
Read more » Is a Red-Eared Slider a Good Pet? Read This Before Buying a Turtle

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

Diamondback Terrapin Care: Keeping the USA’s Most Unique Turtle

[…]capacity, commercial turtle tubs or ponds.   A dry basking surface is essential. Commercial turtle docks and ramps suffice for smaller specimens, but adults will likely sink anything that is not affixed to the glass with silicone adhesive. Cork bark wedged between the aquarium’s sides is another option.   Salinity […]
Read more » Diamondback Terrapin Care: Keeping the USA’s Most Unique Turtle

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

Red Eared Slider Turtles: Finding the Best Calcium Sources

Red-Eared Sliders, Snapping Turtles, Red-Bellied Turtles, Soft-shelled Turtles, Reeve’s Turtles and the various Side-necks and Snake-necks are among the world’s most popular reptilian pets. While we know much about their care, the importance of calcium in the diet is, judging from the questions I receive on this blog, still not […]
Read more » Red Eared Slider Turtles: Finding the Best Calcium Sources

Monitor Lizard Ownership: Important Points to Consider

[…]their body temperature by moving between hot and cooler areas). Most species require very high basking temperatures, and if sufficient space is not provided, the entire cage will become over-heated due to the effects of the basking site.   The 6 to 7 foot-long Nile, Lace, Crocodile and Water Monitors […]
Read more » Monitor Lizard Ownership: Important Points to Consider

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 […]

Fishing Spider: Habitat and Care

[…]infancy, and especially favors spiders. After locating the spider, we swam out from beneath the dock to plan our capture strategy. Noting my sidekick’s smaller size, and the fact that he has handled snakes longer than himself, I suggested that he go back and collect it, as the area was […]

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

Savu Python Care: Keeping One of the World’s Smallest Pythons

[…] The ambient temperature should range from 75-84 F. Incandescent bulbs can be used to create a basking site of 90 F. Ceramic heaters or red/black reptile “night bulbs” may be employed to provide heat after dark. If needed, under-tank heaters http://bitly.com/SRpr5g can be used to further warm the basking […]
Read more » Savu Python Care: Keeping One of the World’s Smallest Pythons

Small Pet Turtles: Black-Breasted Leaf Turtle Care

[…]if at all, as a steady goldfish diet has been linked to kidney and liver disorders in other turtle species.   Commercial turtle chows are not accepted unless moistened, and then not always. The calcium requirements of Black-Breasted Leaf Turtles, especially growing youngsters and gravid females, are quite high. All […]
Read more » Small Pet Turtles: Black-Breasted Leaf Turtle Care

Reptile UVB Bulbs: Insights on the Best from Zoo-Based Herpetologists

[…]and other h   The conference I attended is a day-long event sponsored annually by my favorite turtle care and conservation organization, the New York Turtle and Tortoise Society; please check this website to read about their fine work…and to see photos from my recent presentation there. As in so […]
Read more » Reptile UVB Bulbs: Insights on the Best from Zoo-Based Herpetologists

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.   […]
Read more » Your First Pet Snake: A Checklist of Things to Consider

Turtle Food: Pellets, Shrimp and other Prepared Diets

[…]Sliders, Sidenecks, and Asian Box, Spotted and Painted Turtles, but is also useful for African Mud Turtles, Spotted Pond Turtles and others. I especially like the fact that it is available in both hatchling and adult formulas, with the levels of protein and other nutrients adjusted for each.   ReptiSticks […]
Read more » Turtle Food: Pellets, Shrimp and other Prepared Diets

Turtles as Pets: New Species to Try in 2014

[…]Yellow-Spotted Sideneck is best kept by those with room for a 100+ gallon aquarium or a commercial turtle tub or pond. Dry basking areas and ample UVB exposure are essential. Youngsters are largely carnivorous, adding plants to the menu as they mature. Zoo Med Aquatic Turtle Food,specifically formulated for Sidenecks […]

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

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

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, Amphibian, Scorpion and Tarantula Feeding Tools

[…]product on the market.  Amazingly simple in design and easy to use, it will keep sliders, musk turtles, map turtles and similar species well-occupied…and their owners very amused!   Exo-Terra’s Automatic Turtle Feeder, similar in design to automatic fish-feeders, is a much-needed addition to the turtle-keeper’s supply kit.   You […]
Read more » Reptile, Amphibian, Scorpion and Tarantula Feeding Tools

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 […]

Tortoise Rescue: Finding a Home for a Turtle or Tortoise

[…]both knowledgeable and dedicated, and over the society’s long history have helped thousands of turtles and turtle-owners and supported many young turtle biologists and conservation projects.  Their monthly talks and annual day-long seminars draw some of the world’s best known herpetologists as speakers.  I was proud to have been asked […]
Read more » Tortoise Rescue: Finding a Home for a Turtle or Tortoise

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. […]

Cold Weather Tips for Reptile, Amphibian & Invertebrate Owners

[…]A simple terrarium re-location may save time, effort and money.   Terrarium ambient and basking temperatures should be carefully monitored, day and night; a huge array of herp-specific thermometers greatly simplifies this task.  Zoo Med’s Hygrotherm Humidity and Temperature Controller and other light and heater timers can help create healthful […]
Read more » Cold Weather Tips for Reptile, Amphibian & Invertebrate Owners

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 […]
Read more » Python Eats Crocodile – Tales of Big Snake Eating

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 […]
Read more » 2014 is Named “The Year of the Salamander”

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). […]
Read more » Providing Clean Water to Reptiles and Amphibians – The Nitrogen Cycle

Vitamin D3, UVB and Pet Reptiles: Important New Information for Pet Owners

[…]to manufacture D3 in the skin.   Stripefoot Anoles, on the other hand, did not decrease their basking time when fed high levels on D3, and they did not increase basking behavior when fed diets low in D3.   The researchers therefore concluded that Brown Anoles are able to use […]
Read more » Vitamin D3, UVB and Pet Reptiles: Important New Information for Pet Owners

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

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” […]

How to become a Zoologist

[…]amazing opportunities to meet people and become involved in interesting projects; the New York Turtle and Tortoise Society, my favorite, is a perfect example.  Zoos and museums nearly always utilize volunteer interns (I started out at the Bronx Zoo in this way), so be sure to look into these possibilities. […]

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

The Best Infrared Temperature Gun for Reptile and Amphibian Terrariums

[…]natural habitats.  Interesting surprises awaited – for example, I found that Red-Eared Sliders basking on a cool March day in NYC were able to raise their temperatures by at least 20 F above that of the air.   Creating suitable basking areas for my pets and exhibit animals suddenly became much […]
Read more » The Best Infrared Temperature Gun for Reptile and Amphibian Terrariums

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

Tokay Gecko Care, Feeding and Terrarium Design

[…]you to observe them after dark. Heat Ambient air temperatures should range from 75-82 F, with a basking spot of 86 F.  Large enclosures will allow for the establishment of a thermal gradient (areas of different temperatures).  Thermal gradients, critical to good health, enable lizards to regulate their body temperature […]
Read more » Tokay Gecko Care, Feeding and Terrarium Design

New Studies on Reptile Intelligence – How Smart is Your Pet?

[…]to present your own turtle with some feeding challenges?   Check out Zoo Med’s Floating Turtle Feeder. (please see photo below).  Wood Turtle owners are always impressed by their pets’ responsiveness – please see the article linked below, and post your own observations. Lizards that Plan and Remember Monitor lizards never […]
Read more » New Studies on Reptile Intelligence – How Smart is Your Pet?

The Best Small Turtle Pets for Reptile Enthusiasts with Limited Space

[…]have access to submerged caves.  Old crockery flowerpots work well; I also favor the Penn Plax Turtle Pier, which provides a dry basking site as well as an underwater shelter.  Aided by strong legs and a long tail, Big Headed Turtles are accomplished climbers.  Be sure to cover your aquarium […]
Read more » The Best Small Turtle Pets for Reptile Enthusiasts with Limited Space

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

Swollen Eyes in Red Eared Sliders and other Aquatic Turtles

[…]from readers, it seems that poor water quality is a leading cause of swollen eyes in aquatic turtles. Aquatic turtles are messy feeders.  Water contaminated by leftover food and waste products provides an ideal breeding ground for harmful bacteria and fungi, some of which can invade the eye. Opportunistic bacteria […]
Read more » Swollen Eyes in Red Eared Sliders and other Aquatic Turtles

US Reptiles, Amphibians Need Hobbyists’ Help and Federal Protection

[…]protection.  Please see this article for further information on lizard conservation. Western Pond Turtle Once common along the west coast of the USA and into Baja, Mexico, this attractive turtle has now been largely extirpated from Washington and Oregon, and is in trouble elsewhere.  The populations that remain in those […]
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Turtle and Tortoise Eggs – Knowing When She is Ready to Lay

[…]be called for. Please post below if you need a reference to a local veterinarian experienced in turtle care. Hatching the Eggs While the eggs of Common Snapping Turtles and other consummate survivors will often do well at room temperatures (in a hot room, in summer), a reptile egg incubator […]
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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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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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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 […]
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Milksnake Care – Keeping the Sinaloan Milksnake and Related Species

[…]constrictors, Milksnakes feed upon chipmunks and other rodents, shrews, moles, frogs, turtle hatchlings, lizards and a huge array of other animals.  Several appear to specialize in preying upon other snakes.  Some, such as the Eastern Kingsnake, have evolved immunities to the venoms of various pit vipers. Their startling red, black, […]
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Reptile Lighting – Understanding and Using Compact UVB Bulbs

[…]most captive reptiles, maximum UVB exposure is best assured by placing the UVB bulb near a basking (heat producing) bulb.  As the animal seeks warmth under the basking bulb, it is also positioning itself near the UVB source. It occurred to me that the small size of compact bulbs may […]
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Chameleon Care Tips from a Herpetologist – Panther Chameleons as Pets

[…]UVA radiation as well. Recent studies have revealed that Panther Chameleons modify their basking behavior in response to the Vitamin D3 content of their diet; please see this article. Heat An ambient temperature in the mid 70’s, with a basking spot of 88-90 F, and a dip to 65-68 F […]
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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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Boa Care – Emerald Tree Boa Terrariums, Husbandry and Diet

[…]one might imagine. Incandescent bulbs should be used to maintain a temperature of 75-77 F, and a basking spot of 85 F.  At night, a dip to 72 F is beneficial  A ceramic heater or red/black reptile “night bulb” can be used to provide heat after dark. Large enclosures are […]
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Automatic Feeders – Turtle and Newt Pellet Dispenser and Foraging Toy

[…]as Cichlids and larger catfishes.     Further Reading Semi-Aquatic Turtle Care: Sliders, Map Turtles, Painted Turtles Behavioral Enrichment for Poison […]
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Reeve’s Turtle – Perfect Pet Turtles for Red Eared Slider Fans

[…]females, an extensive land area is not necessary. A dry basking surface is necessary.  Commercial turtle docks and ramps work for smaller specimens, but large adults may sink anything that is not affixed to the glass with silicone adhesive.  Cork bark wedged between the aquarium’s sides is another option. Filtration […]
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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 […]
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Amphibians as Pets – Common Frogs, Toads and Salamanders of the USA

[…]equipped with simple filters and half-filled with de-chlorinated, room temperature water.  Turtle basking platforms and live or plastic plants serve well as resting places. ReptoMin Food Sticks can make up most of your newt’s diet.  Freeze-dried shrimp, live blackworms, and various frozen tropical fish foods should also be provided. American […]
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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 […]
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Reptiles as Pets – Snakes and Turtles Commonly Encountered in the USA

[…]pears and other produce should be provided. Reptile calcium/vitamin supplements are essential. Box Turtle Care Wood Turtle Care Health Considerations Salmonella bacteria, commonly present in reptile digestive tracts, can cause severe illnesses in people.  Handling an animal will not cause an infection, as the bacteria must be ingested.  Salmonella infections […]
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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 […]
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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 […]
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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 […]
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Green Anole Intelligence – Researchers Shocked by Lizard Brainpower

[…]Tortoises Learn by Imitation Learning Abilities of Monitors, Iguanas and other Lizards Wood Turtle […]
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Giant Snapping Turtles – Size Records from a Survey of 84,000 Turtles

[…]Introduction if you wish to help).     Further Reading Keeping Snapping and Alligator Snapping Turtles Snapping Turtles in Brackish Water […]
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UVB Light: Why Do Reptiles Need It, and Which UVB Bulbs are Best?

[…]but details are lacking and most do poorly if denied UVB exposure. Snakes, Common Snapping Turtles and other aquatic turtles, and nocturnal lizards (i.e. Leopard Geckos) are able to obtain D3 from their food. Captives generally do fine without UVB light, provided that sufficient D3 is present in the diet. […]
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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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