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[…]good. Commercial Exhibits and My Own Collection Please see the photos below to see how I put a Basking Platform to use in exhibits at the Maritime Aquarium and in my own collection. The brackets that secure the platform to the aquarium’s glass come in quite handy as live plant supports. […]
[…]and Advantages of Various Platforms Since their introduction, I’ve put the first line of basking docks and platforms to good use in my collection and in several of the aquarium and museum exhibits I’ve designed (please see article below). Their only limitations are that large turtles tend to sink them […]
[…]lodge themselves inside too tightly, and provide larger shelters as they grow). The Zoo Med Turtle Dock can be set up to serve both as a basking platform and hideaway for aquatic turtles. When used in shallow water, the sloping side, top of the platform and tank’s wall form a […]
[…]your turtle with ample UVB radiation (the Zoo Med 10.0 bulb positioned within 12 inches of the basking site, is ideal), a balanced diet, and an appropriately warm basking site, so that its immune system will be functioning at full capacity. As is true for all reptiles, proper husbandry is […]
[…]than one might expect. A temperature gradient of 68- 74 F should be established, along with a basking site set at 80 F. Humidity should be kept at 50-60%, and areas of both moist and dry substrate should be available. Turtle Feeding The wild diet consists primarily of […]
[…]with predatory fish). Basking Platforms The frogs in the exhibit photo are resting upon an R-Zilla Basking Platform. I use these extensively, both at home and in the zoo/aquarium exhibits that I design. The platforms are very realistic in appearance, especially when surrounded by real or artificial plants and with […]
Maintaining clean water is one of the biggest challenges facing aquatic turtle keepers. Here at ThatPetPlace we stock a number of filters designed especially for use with turtles. Most are submersible and will function even in very low water…one, the Turtle Cliff Filter, also doubles as a basking site and […]
[…]necessary husbandry tool are readily available – a strong filter (I favor the ZooMed Canister), basking platform, UVB source and an incandescent basking light that warms the platform area to 90 F or so. Further Reading Please see the following articles for more info on Painted Turtle Care and […]
Asia’s Keeled Box Turtle, also known as the Jagged-shelled or Indian Thorn Turtle (Pyxidea mouhotii) is an attractive, interesting species that has somehow never become very popular with turtle keepers. Wild populations have plummeted in recent years and, as zoos pay little attention to this turtle, I’d like to ask […]
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 […]
[…]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. Filtration […]
[…]of the world’s turtles. I have observed them moving on the bottoms of ice-covered ponds, and basking at the water’s surface on warm days in February in NYC. Normal room temperatures are fine, and allowing them to cool slightly in winter is a good idea. They will continue to feed […]
[…]can sometimes be seen swimming below the ice on sunny days in winter. I have observed individuals basking in late January in NYC. The alligator snapping turtle, Macroclemmys temmincki, a relative, is one of the world’s largest freshwater turtles, topping 200 pounds in weight. Native to the southeastern United States […]
Some of the most popular semi-aquatic (or “basking”) pet turtles, such as Red-Eared and Yellow-Bellied Sliders, Map Turtles, Cooters and Chicken Turtles, eagerly accept fish and other animal-based foods – so eagerly, in fact, that it is easy to forget that most are omnivorous, and not carnivorous, by nature. Natural […]
[…]use for the Penn Plax Turtle Pier, a wonderful product that was originally designed as a resting/basking area for turtles, newts and frogs. Problematical Habitats and Habits Many semi-aquatic frogs, often thought of as “typical pond frogs” by people living within their ranges, make interesting and attractive pets. However, due […]
Marine turtles (popularly known as “sea turtles”) are well-liked by all, herpers and “other” people alike. They are, in many ways, creatures of great mystery, yet opportunities to become involved in hands-on research with them abound. My first field research outside of the USA was with green turtles (Chelonia […]
In Part 1 of this article we looked at the natural history of the interesting but little-studied Keeled Box Turtle (also known as the Jagged-shelled or Indian Thorn Turtle, Pyxidea mouhotii). Like many other turtles native to South and Southeast Asia, it is severely threatened by habitat loss and collection for […]
[…]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 of […]
The term “Asian Turtle Crisis” was coined in 1997, when photos of thousands of rare turtles being slaughtered in a Guangzhou, China food market propelled the tragic plight of Asia’s freshwater turtles into the conservation spotlight. The private turtle-keeping and zoo communities were quick to take action, and a number […]
[…]a wonderful time. I was also gratified to see that many organizations, including ThatFishPlace/ThatPetPlace, supported NYTTS’ efforts – thanks very much! Well, I could go on and on…please visit NYTTS’ website to read more and see other photos. Please also consider joining…you can read more about NYTTS’ wonderful work in […]
Today’s commercial turtle foods are, thankfully, light years removed from the yesteryear’s dried “ant eggs” (actually ant pupae). While natural foods remain important, some remarkable advances now provide turtle keepers with an important safety net, and simplify the process of providing our pets with a balanced diet. Today I’ll review […]
[…]glass aquariums and other small or poorly-ventilated enclosures, the entire area soon takes on the basking site temperature. Humidity Box Turtles, even those native dry habitats, require access to humid substrates. Low humidity has been linked to eye and ear infections and kidney disease. The substrate should be misted at […]
[…]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 […]
Vacation feeders and “toys” for turtles…reptile care supplies certainly have come a long way since I started on my pet care and zoo-keeping career! Today I’d like to highlight two new automatic feeders designed especially for turtles (I believe both will be useful for African Clawed Frogs, Mexican Axolotls, newts […]
[…]and air temperature. Heat Bulb An incandescent “spot type” bulb should be employed to heat the basking site to 85-90 F. The basking light will usually warm the rest of the enclosure sufficiently (78-82 F). If additional heat is needed, red/black night bulbs or ceramic heater-emitters may be added. Ultra […]
[…]utilize sunken branches and aquatic plants as “ladders” when rising to breathe. A Basking and Feeding Platform The upper surface of the pier is flat and smooth, ideal for both turtles and amphibians. It is equipped with an indented area designed to hold gravel, which can be used to offset […]
[…]site, UVB bulb, heater, and powerful filtration. A water temperature range of 68-76 F, with a basking site of 88-90 F, is ideal. Diet Wild Spotted Turtles feed upon fish, tadpoles, snails, carrion, insects, crayfish, shrimp, salamanders, frogs and aquatic plants. Pets should be offered a diet comprised largely […]
[…]occurs in fast-moving streams. Oddly, they sometimes climb trees to heights of over 6 feet when basking, aided by their small size and mobile legs (the plastron is much reduced). Musk Turtles sometimes surprise people by dropping into boats passing below basking sites! Reproduction Egg-laying occurs from February through June, […]
Most turtles become quite responsive to their owners (especially near feeding time!), and a great many show impressive abilities to learn and adjust to new situations. In my experience, however, few approach the wood turtle (Glyptemys insculpta, formerly Clemmys,) in these areas. Testing Turtles Herpetologists and experienced turtle enthusiasts consider […]
[…]that bask as adults are also often reluctant to leave the water completely, and favor submerged basking platforms. This makes good sense, as most are small enough to be consumed by all manner of predators, including Bullfrogs and wading birds. Human or predator disturbance may also alter basking behavior so […]
[…]needed) and that there are no sharp edges. Further Reading Hiding Spots for Turtles Aggressive Basking Behavior in Painted Turtles this Herpetologica article shows the importance of good basking sites. Black Knobbed Map Turtle image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by […]
[…]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 for […]
[…]interesting, attractive inhabitants of garden pools if given enough space and easy access to sunny basking spots. Like most turtles, they require unfiltered sunlight in order to form the vitamin D that is necessary to process calcium and build strong shells (exceptions to this rule are certain largely aquatic, non-basking […]
[…]care, and the purchase of UVB bulbs and fixtures, heat bulbs and fixtures, water heaters, basking platforms, food, and mineral supplements. Veterinary Care Veterinarians willing to treat reptiles are difficult to find in many regions, although those experienced in turtle care are becoming more common. It is always a […]
Asia’s freshwater turtles face an unprecedented extinction crisis, which may soon result in the loss of 90 or more species. In 2001, I joined other turtle enthusiasts in south Florida to help process nearly 10,000 turtles of many species that had been confiscated on route to food markets in China. […]
Turtles and tortoises are the most popular of all reptilian pets – even “non-herpers” like them – and this is reflected by the many websites devoted to Chelonian-related matters. Following are some that I have found to be especially valuable. This list is by no means exhaustive…I’ll cover others in […]
[…]I favor the Zoo Med Turtle Clean (please see photo) for most species, but submersible models, basking site/filter combinations, hanging types and others are all useful in certain situations. Please post below for detailed information on your particular turtle and aquarium. Ease of Maintenance However well-intentioned we may be, […]
Box and wood turtles are well-known for both their suitability as pets and the unusual degree of intelligence that they display. Unfortunately, they often put their brain power to use in thwarting their owners’ efforts to provide them with a balanced diet. More so than most other species, box […]
[…]so most any tank depth or species can be accommodated. Long, sloping lengths of wood make ideal basking platforms, while bases with multiple pieces attached provide a variety of levels for your animals to experiment with. If a dry basking site is needed, you can arrange for part of the […]
[…]turtle plastrons. Hatchlings and juveniles can be raised in smaller aquariums, with Zoo Med Turtle Docks or R-Zilla Basking Platforms used as land areas. Filtration Filtration is best accomplished with a strong canister filter, as internal filters will be moved about or broken by these active turtles. Be sure to […]
[…]swamps and flooded meadows. Captives should be kept in shallow aquariums provisioned with a basking site and ample UVB exposure. The tiny hatchlings will feel stressed in bare environments, so be sure to add hideaways and floating plastic plants. Water temperatures should range from 70-74 F, with a basking site […]
[…]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 suffice […]
[…]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, Sliders and similar turtles need a dry surface on which to bask. Commercial turtle docks will suffice […]
The Yellow-Spotted Sideneck Turtle (Terecay, Yellow-Spotted Amazon River Turtle), Podocnemis unifilis, and several relatives were popular pets in the 1970’s, but soon became unavailable due to over-collection (largely for the food trade) and the resulting limitations on importations. Australian sidenecks soon filled the void, and remain in the spotlight today. […]
[…]without needing to swim, i.e. 1-2 inches. The aquarium should be equipped with an easily-accessed basking site, UVB bulb, water heater, filter, and floating plastic or live plants under which the shy youngsters can hide. Bare-bottomed aquariums are preferable, as gravel greatly complicates cleaning. Adults do best in […]
[…]of this article, we discussed the role played by plants in the diets of popular North American “basking” turtles such as Red-Eared and Yellow-Bellied Sliders, Map, Red-Bellied and Chicken Turtles, and Cooters. Useful Plants and Vegetables As your turtles grow out of the hatchling stage, I suggest offering dandelion, bok […]
Click here to read the first part of this article Feeding Snapping turtles take a wide variety of prey (see Part I) and will accept nearly any animal-based food placed before them (hatchlings may need to be started on live blackworms and guppies, and weaned to non-living food items). However, […]
Eleven years ago, I traveled to Florida to assist folks from the New York Turtle and Tortoise Society and other groups in rehabilitating thousands of turtles seized in southern China (please see this article for details). The event marked my introduction to what is now known as the “Asian Turtle […]
Please see Part I of this article for general information concerning pet turtle shelters. Today we’ll look at meeting the needs of a few specialists. Aquatic Bottom Dwellers Mata Mata Turtles (Chelus fimbriatus), Snapping Turtles (Chelydra serpentina), Alligator Snapping Turtles (Macroclemmys temmincki) and some other aquatic species prefer to burrow […]
In the course of my work with captive amphibians and reptiles I have often noted that the activity patterns of some seemed strictly controlled from within, while others were quite flexible. This varied from species to species, and sometimes among individuals within the same species. We know that most if […]
Click: The Yellow-Spotted Sideneck Turtle , Podocnemis unifilis, in the Wild and Captivity: Natural History – Part 1, to read the first part of this article. Diet Adults are mainly herbivorous and subsist largely upon aquatic vegetation and fallen fruits, but will also consume insects, fish, carrion, snails and crayfish […]
[…]for growing turtles. Heat Be sure to write in for recommendations as to proper water, air and basking temperatures, as each varies by species. Recommended The Exo-Terra Submersible Turtle Heater is designed to withstand the havoc that active turtles can unleash on “lesser” heaters. Turtle Tough Halogen Bulbs provide UVA […]
[…]glass aquariums and other small or poorly ventilated enclosures, the entire area soon takes on the basking site temperature. Humidity Overly dry conditions may cause health concerns. The substrate should be misted daily; moist retreats, a large water area, and a dry basking site must also be available. Reptile […]
[…]and turtles must have access to a source of UVB radiation, a heated living area, and a hot basking spot. For most owners, this translates into the purchase of UVB bulbs and fixtures, basking bulbs and fixtures, heat mats and ceramic heaters (tortoises) and aquarium heaters (turtles). Expenses can be […]
One of the most common and serious problems faced by turtle keepers involves female turtles (mated or unmated) that develop eggs but refuse to deposit them in the terrariums or aquariums in which they live. While this can be the result of any number of health problems (i.e. low calcium […]
[…]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 Semi-aquatic […]
In the course of my work, I am often contacted by turtle owners whose pets cease feeding and become unusually restless. The behavior appears suddenly, sometimes after many uneventful years – a Common Musk Turtle did so after 22 years in my collection – and seems to have no external […]
The 26 Mud and Musk Turtle species (Family Kinosternidae and Staurotypidae) share a common body plan and general behaviors, yet show an astonishing range of adaptations to diet, habitat and predators. Among them we find both North America’s smallest turtle and brutes with jaws capable of crushing a finger. Very […]
Many aquatic turtles make wonderful pets, but nearly all share one troublesome trait – they are messy feeders, and keeping their water clear is often a major challenge. Today I’d like to present a simple, time-saving feeding technique and review some helpful products such as undergravel filters and gravel washers. […]
Snapping turtles bite viciously in self defense and when striking at food – in fact, the species’ name, “serpentina”, refers to the long neck and lightening-fast strike. I have worked with a number of quite calm captives that showed no propensity for biting, but all are capable, and feeding accidents […]
[…]a number of useful UVA bulbs. Repti-Halogen Bulbs are available in 50-150 watt sizes. Repti-Basking Spotlights offer a narrow, tight beam, and range in size from 25-150 watts. Zoo Med Turtle Tuff Halogen Bulbs are water-resistant, and so can stand up to the splashing that is so common around aquatic turtle […]
[…]breed rapidly, adjust well to human presence, and are very aggressive in the pursuit of food and basking sites. I have noticed that Eastern Painted Turtles have declined in several habitats now occupied by Sliders, but am basing this on observation only, not study. Others voice the same concerns, but […]
[…]of released Red Eared Sliders that now populate over 30 foreign countries (see photo of Sliders basking in a pond at the Shitennō-ji Buddhist temple in Osaka, Japan; photo courtesy of Matthew Lu) . Please see Ideal Pet Choices: Small Turtles and The Best “First Tortoise” before deciding on a […]
The plight of the USA’s freshwater turtles has taken a back stage to what has been labeled the Asian Turtle Crisis (a tragic situation, please see below). However, a full-blown crisis is in progress here as well. In the past 5 years, over 12 million wild caught freshwater turtles were […]
[…]your local “pond turtle”! Like its cousin the Red Eared Slider, the Peacock spends much time basking on logs, plunging (or “sliding”) into water when disturbed. Unfortunately for those with limited space, this is the largest of the 15 Common Slider subspecies, with females sometimes topping 19 inches in […]
[…]lead to injuries and motor burnout. Hagen Turtle Cliff Filter This unique product is actually a basking site, waterfall and powerful filter (to 96 gpm) rolled into one. Resembling a rock in appearance, the Cliff Filter is a real space saver and great for use with frogs and newts as […]
Swollen, inflamed eyes are commonly seen in a wide variety of captive turtles. Strangely, the hardy Red Eared Slider seems especially prone to this annoying and potentially life-threatening condition (as we’ll see, popular feeding practices may partially explain this). From childhood through my career as a herpetologist, standard wisdom has […]
[…]carry a wide variety of freeze dried and frozen krill of various sizes at ThatFishPlace/ThatPetPlace. You will also find krill and shrimp in Reptomin Select-A-Food, Suprema Food Sticks and Gammarus Shrimp Supplement and in Zoo Med Can O’ Shrimp. The World’s Most Abundant Animal? The Antarctic krill, Euphausia superba, may […]
Spring weather often brings me questions concerning aquatic turtle nesting behavior. As temperatures warm (and sometimes before, as indoor turtles may be “ahead” of schedule) pet female turtles should be checked for signs that they are carrying eggs. While Red-Eared Sliders, Painted and Snapping Turtles and other largely aquatic turtles are […]
Concerns over the use of goldfishes (Carassius auratus) as a food item for reptiles and amphibians have long been recognized, yet there remains a bit of confusion on the topic. References to Vitamin E deficiencies in animals kept on fish-based diets, a separate problem entirely, often further clouds the issue. […]
An accident that caused the deaths of 299 endangered Green Turtles at the Cayman Turtle Farm has raised concerns about the facility’s operation. The incident brought other issues to my mind as well. I was first inspired by the legendary herpetologist Archie Carr, and have since been involved in several […]
On May 7th of this year a fisherman in North Carolina caught a snapping turtle that is reputed to be 85 pounds in weight. If the weight proves accurate, this animal would be the largest of the species yet captured. There is an 86 pound animal on record, but this […]
Although Slider hatchlings (Trachemys scripta elegans) have been banned from the US pet trade by the Food and Drug Administration since 1975, the tiny green turtles are still regularly offered for sale in certain areas, creating confusion for aspiring turtle owners. History of the Law Under the law, turtles less […]
Please see Part I of this article for information on our prepared box turtle diets. Natural Food Animals Live mealworms, waxworms or earthworms mixed into canned or pelleted food should encourage your turtle to take a bite. Earthworms are a box turtle favorite and a highly nutritious food in their […]
[…]sex they will be? Active in the Egg Researchers from the Chinese Academy of Sciences found that basking behavior may be as important to turtle embryos as it is to fully-formed animals. In laboratory experiments, embryos of the Chinese Soft-shelled Turtle, Pelodiscus sinensis, were able to sense slight temperature differences […]
Please see Part 1 of this article for general information on retained-egg syndrome and the provision of suitable nest sites for captive turtles. Creating an Acceptable Nest Site Gravid turtles can be maddeningly choosy when it comes to nest site selection – even when presented with what appears to be perfectly […]
[…]is at average room temperature (65-68F) or a bit higher over the winter. Leave their UVB and basking lights on during the day, as they will continue to bask and move about. You can offer food 1-2x per week, but they will likely not eat much. Sick or stressed animals […]
[…]substrates; a water bowl large enough for soaking should be available. If not provided with a dry basking site, they quickly develop fungal skin diseases. Their diet can be comprised of a variety of whole fresh-water fishes. Watersnake Care Box and Wood Turtles, Terrapene spp., Glyptemys insculpta These mild-mannered, […]
[…]cage should be large enough to provide your lizards with a temperature gradient (75- 84 F), and a basking spot of 95-100 F should be available. Despite their aquatic lifestyle, Mertens’ Monitors must dry off completely if they are to remain in good health and avoid fungal infections of the […]
[…]American species are sizable, active turtles that require spacious aquariums equipped with sturdy basking sites, heaters and powerful filtration. While a 55 gallon aquarium might suit the smallest Snake Necks, larger species need tanks of several hundred gallon capacity, or commercial turtle tubs and ponds. Temperatures should range from 72-80 […]
[…]inches respectively, and also produce UVA and heat. In many home situations, they can double as a basking light and UVB source, eliminating the need for other bulbs. Which Reptile UVB Bulb is Best? Choosing a UVB source had once been easy – unfiltered sunlight was the only 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 […]
Turtle enthusiasts find the Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin) very difficult to resist. Sporting a beautiful carapace that is deeply etched with concentric rings, and clad in a bewildering array of gray, silver and black markings, this estuary specialist does, however, present a few challenges to prospective keepers. A Unique Natural […]
Three of the 4 species in the genus Terrapene – the Eastern, Three-Toed and Ornate Box Turtles – as well as several of the 10 subspecies, have long been popular in the pet trade. However, they should not be classified as “beginner’s turtles”…in fact, their dietary and other requirements are […]
Many of the most interesting reptile field research reports are published in professional journals such as Copeia, Herpetologica and Herpetological Review, and are not available on the Internet. From time to time I’ll provide summaries of some of the fascinating articles that I come across. Today’s report covers Spring, 2010 […]
[…]glass aquariums and other small or poorly ventilated enclosures, the entire area soon takes on the basking site temperature. Humidity Low humidity has been linked to eye and ear infections and kidney disease in captive Eastern Box Turtles. This has not been documented in Wood Turtles, but overly dry conditions […]
While over-collection and poorly-prepared pet keepers have certainly led to declines in wild populations of some species, private hobbyists have also contributed immensely to the conservation of amphibians, invertebrates and reptiles (as well as fishes, birds and mammals). This is especially true of those animals which zoos lack the interest […]
As a boy, my favorite exotic animal collecting site was, of all places, the loading dock of the local A&P Supermarket. Raymond Ditmars and other famous city-born naturalists had taken this route, and so I followed. The store was not far from the Bronx’s Hunts Point Market, where trucks from […]
I remember well my shock when the news concerning temperature dependant sex determination (TDSD) among reptiles first broke. Imagine…a turtle or crocodile egg can develop as either a male or female, depending upon the incubation temperature! Well, it now seems that at least one species of lizard, the three-lined skink […]
Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. Powdered vitamin and mineral supplements for reptiles and amphibians have been a great boon to herp keepers. However, African Clawed Frogs, Red-Eared Sliders, Axolotls and other creatures that feed only in water present special challenges, as the supplements wash away before being consumed. Today we’ll look […]
I have long stressed the importance of dietary variety to the health of captive reptiles and amphibians. Most consume anywhere from dozens to hundreds of prey species in the wild, yet are typically fed only crickets, mealworms and a few others in captivity. Collecting insects (Zoo Med’s Bug Napper is […]
While pet-keeping suffices for many herp enthusiasts, some with particularly deep interests can only be happy when working with reptiles and amphibians full time. My own path to career in herpetology, while twisted (even “tortuous” at times!), was well worth the struggle…as you can see by the attached photos, I’m […]
So as not to alienate the many hardcore, dedicated turtle keepers among my readers, I’ll start off by qualifying the title. I know people who do quite well with 4 of the 5 species discussed in this article. But in addition to being very well-experienced, these folks have both the […]
Also known as the Royal Python (Python regius), this smallest of Africa’s pythons is also the one best suited for captivity…one Ball Python lived at the Philadelphia Zoo for a record 47.6 years. However, even long-term captives often exhibit the disturbing habit of refusing food for long periods. This tendency […]
[…]mail to a 10 year old!) by suggesting I replace the water section with a bowl and provide a warmer basking site. The blisters cleared up within 2 weeks of the change. The aquatic Elephant Trunk and Tentacled Snakes are all-too-often plagued by stubborn fungal infections. Treatment remains elusive, although […]
[…]in accordance with the Vitamin D3 content of their diets (please see article linked below). If a basking site cannot be arranged near the bulb, a shallow “basking enclosure” may be necessary…please post below for further information. Florescent bulbs stop emitting UVB after a time, but will continue to give […]
[…]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 […]
[…]in a northern watersnake. Despite being highly aquatic, my pet needed air circulation and a dry basking site in order to remain healthy. Screen Cages and Terrarium Top Enclosures Screen cages provide an ideal way to address each of the aforementioned concerns. While glass and plastic filter out beneficial UV […]
Today I’d like to highlight some interesting feeding tools, automatic feeders, live food dispensers and other products designed for herp and invertebrate keepers. Included are items that can lighten our work load, ensure safety when feeding aggressive creatures, and automatically provide meals in our absence. I especially favor products that […]
[…]door) wrought by three frustrated 50 pound tortoises soon “taught” my friend to leave their basking path unimpeded! You can get some idea of the rewards and difficulties of life with a giant tortoise […]
Softshell Turtles caught my attention early and remain great favorites of mine all these years (decades!) later. I’ve had a long history with the group – I raised Smooth Softshell hatchlings as a child, dove with huge Florida Softshells in southern canals and was eventually lucky enough to work with […]
[…]D3 receptors in the brain are believed responsible for accessing vitamin needs and controlling basking behavior. Basking or Diet? I was most interested in this article because, although this point was not specifically addressed, it established that panther chameleons can be provided with adequate Vitamin D3 (at least in the […]
Five species of sea turtle, all threatened or endangered, inhabit waters affected by the April, 2010 oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. In the 20 months that have passed since, many have been rescued, but problems still linger. Unfortunately, we cannot yet determine how this ecological nightmare has affected their survival prospects. […]
While most herp enthusiasts would be thrilled with a live holiday gift, it’s important to think very carefully before you make a present of a reptile or amphibian. Difficult as it may be to believe, the recipient may not share your enthusiasm! Presenting a pet to someone who is unwilling […]
A key indicator of intelligence is said to be behavioral flexibility – the ability to modify actions to fit new situations. Long thought to rely mainly upon instinct, reptiles have not been credited with much “brain power”. However, recent research revealed that many reptiles are capable of solving complex problems […]
Turtle enthusiasts seem always to remain interested in even the commonest species. I’ve worked with world-renowned herpetologists who keep Sliders and private breeders who care for 2,000+ turtles (not a misprint!) yet find a place for Common Snappers. I’m the same way…as I write, I’m watched by a Stinkpot that […]
Note: For further information on red eared sliders in the wild and captivity, please see The Red Eared Slider in Outdoor Ponds and Typical and Atypical Habitats of the Red Eared Slider The red eared slider is familiar to herp enthusiasts the world over, but many of its relatives […]
Many items marketed for tropical fish are of great value to reptile and amphibian enthusiasts. Please see: Caring for Reptiles and Amphibians: Useful Foods, Medications and other Products from the Aquarium Trade – Introduction and Feeding Accessories for background information and notes on other products. Frozen Foods for Turtles Frozen silversides, […]
The incredible diversity of life in tidal creeks and rivers has attracted me since childhood. And while invertebrates and fishes predominate, areas where fresh and salt water meet hold wonderful surprises for reptile enthusiasts as well. Today I’d like to discuss a turtle that I often find in brackish water […]
[…]isolated areas as well. Natural Habitat Quiet, mud-bottomed waters with abundant vegetation and basking sites are considered to be the typical habitat in the northern part of the range, while tropical slider subspecies tend to occupy large rivers. “Typical”, however, is a quite plastic concept as concerns this adaptable turtle. […]
The US Fish & Wildlife Service is currently (December, 2014) seeking Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) protection for the Common Snapping Turtle and the Florida, Spiny, and Smooth Softshell Turtles. Each is being collected from the wild in ever increasing numbers and exported to Asian food and […]
[…]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 […]
Stories concerning immense Snapping Turtles (Chelydra serpentina) abound wherever this impressive reptile occurs, but most are difficult to substantiate. I’ve kept and observed this species from childhood. Once I embarked upon a career in herpetology, I had the good fortune of meeting a great many impressive Snapping Turtles and Snapping […]
Wildlife rehabilitators are private citizens who care for injured, sick or orphaned animals and, whenever possible, return them to their natural habitats (un-releasable animals may sometimes be retained for educational purposes). Such work has traditionally focused on birds and mammals, but these days a growing number of caring people are […]
[…]in these cases. Also, dominant tank-mates may prevent others from using shelters or basking sites, or cause them to remain within shelters for extended periods (thereby affecting feeding and basking behavior). This can occur even in the absence of actual aggression – the mere presence of a dominant animal is […]
The world’s 24 species of Softshell Turtles (Family Trionychidae) depart radically from the typical turtle body plan, and their behavior holds many surprises for those familiar with “normal” turtles. In Part 1 of this article we looked at their natural history and diet, and discussed the basics of captive care. I […]
[…]animal. Please post below for further information. Other Considerations Most heliothermic (basking) lizards cannot produce Vitamin B3 without an appropriate source of UVB light. Please see this article for further information, and post any questions below. Further Reading Wild Caught Insects as Reptile Food: Some Concerns Collecting and […]
Please see Part I of this article for more on bent-toed geckos (Genus Cyrtodactylus; C. louisiadensis and C. irianjayaensis). UVB and Calcium Although nocturnal, assume that bent-toed geckos require UVB radiation (others in the genus seem prone to metabolic bone disease). As these lizards generally do not bask at very […]
[…]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 […]
[…]my tads! Further Reading These fellows have surprised me by reproducing without amplexus, basking on rocks and more (most of which is doubted by my colleagues!)…please see African Clawed Frog Behavior. Read more about the Clawed Frog’s spread to foreign habitats worldwide at the Global Invasive Species Website. […]
ReptoMin Floating Food sticks have long been recognized as a valuable dietary staple for many aquatic reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates, and are used in zoos and private collections worldwide. A new version, ReptoMin Select-A-Food, contains the original food sticks as well as freeze dried plankton and shrimp. The size of […]
Like many fellow reptile and amphibian enthusiasts, I’m very interested in dinosaurs. Happily, there have been many exciting new discoveries as of late…a beast recently christened Texacephale langstoni is a good case in point. A New Hard-Headed Dinosaur Years ago, most folks interested in dinosaurs were limited to gawking at […]
Please see Part I of this article for information regarding specific types of reptiles and the growing of native plants. Nearly all fruits and berries, and many flowers and grasses, can be put to good use in feeding tortoises, herbivorous lizards, and certain aquatic turtles. Try also adding grass clumps […]
A life engrossed in herpetology has provided me with more adventures than I dared expect. From tagging Leatherback Turtles in St. Croix to heaving Green Anacondas from a Venezuelan swamp, I’ve been quite fortunate. But I’ve always known that natural wonders are also plentiful close at hand. In fact, one […]
With their highly-permeable skins, amphibians absorb ammonia and other pollutants over a greater surface area than do fishes. Surinam Toads, Axolotls, tadpoles and other aquatic amphibians are most at risk from poor water quality, but even terrestrial species such as toads and Fire Salamanders can quickly succumb to water-borne toxins […]
Harvard biologist David Blachurn knew he was onto something unusual when a benign-looking frog he was examining in Cameroon, West Africa kicked out and left him with a bleeding cut. Unusual indeed – an article (23 August 2008) in Biology Letters describes the hidden claws of Perret’s night frog as […]
[…]Chameleons need a highly-varied diet, large, airy enclosures maintained at 74-78 F (with a basking spot of 85-90 F), humidity levels of 60-90% and exposure to UVB radiation. Please see the articles below and write me for additional information. Stress Chameleons are notably stress-prone. The mere presence of a dominant individual, […]
[…]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 […]
Reptile enthusiasts have long known that tortoises are highly intelligent, and quickly modify their behaviors to meet new challenges. Recent work at the University of Vienna (Biology Letters, March, 2010) has broken new ground in this area. Red-Footed Tortoises (Geochelone carbonaria) have provided us with the first example of “social […]
[…]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 […]
[…]and flowers can make up the bulk of the diet when available; please see this article http://blogs.thatpetplace.com/thatreptileblog/2009/07/29/tortoise-diets-mediterranean-species-and-russian-horsfield%E2%80%99s-tortoises/ for further information.The balance may consist of greens such as kale, endive, Swiss chard and romaine; avoid spinach and iceberg lettuce. Zoo Med’s Grassland Tortoise Diet http://www.thatpetplace.com/natural-grassland-tortoise-food may be added to salads. Hay […]
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 […]
[…]I judged the little creature’s sunbathing periods to be too short, and so removed him for a basking session on my arm. Outdoor life and a diet of moths and earwigs obviously agreed with him, and he was off my arm and onto a branch in a flash. I knew […]
Horned Lizards (Phrynosoma spp., please see photo) and odd Australia’s Thorny Devil (Moloch horridus) have always reminded me of dinosaurs – I think it was their horn-bearing skulls. I recall sketching my pet Horned Lizards and taking the (somewhat primitive!) drawings to the American Museum of Natural History for comparisons […]
After shedding, leopard geckos (Eublepharis macularius) sometimes exhibit a condition that superficially resembles what snake owners know as “retained eye caps”. However, the structure of a leopard gecko’s eye, and that of the closely related banded and fat-tailed geckos, is nothing like that of a snake’s, and problems following shedding […]
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 […]
Autumn’s arrival in the Northern Hemisphere brings both opportunities for improving your pets’ health and behavioral changes in many animals. Seasonal Behavioral Changes Many species, even those from regions considered “tropical”, slow down during the cooler seasons; in captivity they often respond to autumn’s arrival in a similar manner. Animals […]
General I have always found Marine Toads to be among the most engaging of amphibian pets. Toads in general seem to be (externally at least) more responsive than frogs- they “watch” everything, and appear to deliberately consider their next move. Protected as they are by powerful skin toxins, Marine Toads […]
[…]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. […]
Many interesting amphibian and reptile field research reports are published in professional journals such as Copeia, Herpetologica and Herpetological Review, and are not available on the internet. Unfortunately, such journals are usually quite expensive (if well-worth the price). From time to time I’ll provide summaries of interesting articles that I […]
[…]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 […]
Over 200 species of amphibians have become extinct in the last 30 years, a crisis looms for Asian turtles, and recent studies suggest global declines in snake and lizard populations (please see this article). Conservationists in the USA should feel somewhat optimistic about native species, because the Endangered Species Act […]
Known also as Dabb Lizards or Mastigures, Spiny-Tailed Agamids are among the most sought after of all lizard species being kept today. There is certainly much to recommend them, but their care does present some challenges. Today I’d like to introduce the group; in Part II of this article I’ll […]
The Partnership for Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (PARC), a group comprised of private citizens, herpetologists, environmental organizations and others, has made great progress in the 10 years since its inception. 2011’s “Year of the Turtle” effort was especially effective in raising support for tortoise and turtle conservation. This year, the group […]
[…]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. We saw none of the American bullfrogs that […]
[…]remain healthy, tortoises need a thermal gradient – that is, they must be able to move from hot basking sites to cooler areas, and most benefit from a dip in temperature at night. Other concerns include difficulties in providing a stimulating environment and in maintaining cleanliness. Outdoor Enclosures Outdoor maintenance […]
A farm in southern Brazil’s pampas region has yielded the bones of an ancient mammal-like reptile loosely described as a terrifying cross between a Komodo dragon and a tiger. Having worked with both of these modern-day predators, I was immediately intrigued by the newly-described creature (Proceedings of the National Academy […]
[…]UVB and UVA Lamps (Bulbs) A Zoo Med 10.0 UVB bulb positioned within 6 to 8 inches of the basking site, is ideal. Mercury vapor bulbs can be used in situations where the basking site cannot be positioned within 12 inches of the bulb. A source of UVA light, while […]
Today’s article is the second in a series concerning animals in my own collection. For additional information concerning this line of articles, please see My Animal Collection: How a Herpetologist Keeps Barking Treefrogs (Hyla gratiosa) and Gray Treefrogs (Hyla versicolor). Note: the following information is also largely applicable to other […]
Recently I wrote about the care and natural history one of the world’s most unique turtles, the pancake tortoise. Today I would like to add a note about breeding this species in captivity. In addition to the personal satisfaction you will gain from such endeavors, your efforts stand to contribute […]
Many turtle keepers here in the USA can recall seeing hatchling Red-Eared Sliders with gaily-painted shells being offered for sale at pet stores and carnivals. Thankfully, through education and the passage of legislation, that practice, which killed thousands if not millions of turtles, is no longer with us. Unfortunately, an […]
We all love our reptiles, but most of us loathe their lunch. Many reptiles that we commonly keep as pets are insectivores, and the most commonly available feeder insect is the domestic cricket. Yes, you read that correctly, “domestic.” Scientifically referred to as Acheta domesticus, the type of crickets sold […]
[…]Zilla Reptile Calcium Supplement Spray. Recently, it has been shown that some chameleons regulate basking behavior in accordance with their Vitamin D3 needs. To read more about this fascinating research, please see Chameleon Basking […]
[…]tree monitors require a spacious cage with provisions for climbing, UVB light and a basking spot of 90-95 F. The several pairs I’ve kept have co-existed without incident, and frequently rested in close contact with one another. Quite shy and quick to take flight, they do best in a well-planted […]
During my years with the Bronx Zoo, I have twice observed cold temperatures to revive salamanders (a Hellbender and a Greater Siren, please see photo) that seemed, by external appearances, to be quite dead. A recent paper caused me to think back on these events, and to other examples of […]
[…]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 fluctuations may […]
Many interesting field research reports are published in professional journals such as Copeia, Herpetologica and Herpetological Review, and are not available on the internet. From time to time I’ll provide summaries of some of the fascinating articles that I come across. Today’s report, drawn from Autumn, 2010 publications, covers observations […]
[…]fare best in a temperature range of 72-85 F; an incandescent spotlight should be used to create a basking spot of 85-92 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 their […]
The larvae of the Black Soldier Fly, Hermetia illucens, have recently attracted a great deal of interest as a food item for herps, birds, fishes and invertebrates. Also sold as “Phoenixworms”, “Calciworms”, “Reptiworms” and “Soldier Grubs”, they are reputed to be superior to other insects in nutritional value. However, much […]
“Behavioral enrichment” – allowing captive animals a wider choice of behaviors in which to engage – is all the rage in zoos, especially for mammals. Reptiles and amphibians also benefit greatly when afforded the chance to act in a more “natural” manner. While they do not seem to engage in […]
The African spurred tortoise (Geochelone sulcata) is at once a highly desirable and problematical pet. One of the most engaging of all tortoises, with long-term pets exhibiting a degree of responsiveness more commonly associated with dogs, hatchlings are available for modest prices. Size Spurred tortoises are, however, the largest of […]
[…]species. Where safe to do so, dispensing with the screen cover is another option. Using a Separate Basking Enclosure If a 6-inch basking site or uncovered top are not feasible in your pet’s terrarium, consider the possibility of utilizing a separate basking enclosure for a few hours each day. When […]
I’ve been fascinated by Green Anoles, Anolis carolinensis, since childhood – way back when they were sold as “American Chameleons”. Although they are often ignored by experienced keepers, I have long featured Green Anoles and related species in zoo exhibits, where they never failed to intrigue visitors (and yours truly!). […]
The Leopard Tortoise Stigmochelys (formerly Geochelone) pardalis, stands out in both attractiveness and personality among a group of reptiles well known for possessing both attributes. Although among the most responsive of reptile pets, their very specific husbandry needs must be met if they are to thrive. An understanding of the […]
Dietary variety is the key to success in rearing many herps and invertebrates. Unfortunately, options for newly-transformed frogs and salamanders, Poison Frogs and other small species and hatchling spiders are limited. A diet of fruit flies, springtails and pinhead crickets sometimes suffices, but as I learned when rearing the endangered […]
In both captivity and nature, chameleons (Family Chamaeleonidae) stand alone – unique in so many ways, they are truly marvelous creatures to know and care for. Today I would like to highlight a few unusual facts about these favored reptile pets. Cultural Significance Chameleons have long drawn our attention…in […]
[…]Snakes (Opheodrys aestivus and O. vernalis). Heat An ambient temperature of 70-76 F is ideal. A basking site of 80-85F should be available as well. Light There is some evidence that, in contrast to most snakes, Green Snakes benefit from exposure to UVB light. A moderate-output bulb, such as the […]
A unique list of species facing imminent extinction was released by the Zoological Society of London at the recent (September, 2012) World Conservation Congress in Jeju, South Korea. As a former member of several IUCN Species Survival Commissions, I was eager to learn the current thinking on the world’s most […]
The discovery of a new frog is always an exciting event, but the species revealed in this month’s issue of Zoo Keys is especially so. The colorful, entirely-aquatic Telmatobius ventriflavum was found in a small stream along a major highway 3,900 feet up in the Peruvian Andes. It is related […]
[…]I tend to maintain them at the lower end of their normal active range, but provide a warmer basking site. If the animals are in good health, a dip to 60 F at night will do no harm (different species vary in this regard – please post below for specific […]
Like sowbugs (isopods, pillbugs), Amphipods are crustaceans that feature prominently in natural diets of many reptiles and amphibians. They contain nutrients not found in insects, and are likely a rich source of calcium. Several species are easy to collect and breed in captivity, but, unlike sowbugs, they rarely attract much […]
[…]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 […]
Unfortunately, animal abuse is a serious and surprisingly common problem in the USA. The applicable laws vary from state to state, and it can be difficult to determine which agency is responsible for enforcement. Regulatory agencies are often under-funded, so many rely upon citizen complaints. It is important, therefore, that concerned […]
A Control Program Backfires Please see Part I of this article for background information. With introduced green iguanas (Iguana iguana) driving endangered burrowing owls from their nests and raccoons (Procyon lotor) devouring sea turtle eggs, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection initiated control measures. At a preserve in Dania Beach, […]
I’ve recently posted information concerning a petition that seeks Endangered Species Act protection for 53 US herps. Many readers applauded the news, but some were concerned about potential limitations on their ability to keep protected species. As they correctly pointed out, responsible pet owners have made important contributions to the […]
[…]becomes lethargic and ceases feeding in October, despite a long photoperiod, and high ambient and basking temperatures. Most bearded dragons in the US pet trade are several generations removed from the wild, yet the tendency to hibernate persists in some. Many bearded dragons, however, remain active all year. I am […]
As I noted in an earlier article (Canned Insects and Other Invertebrates, July 1, 2008), several companies are now marketing canned grasshoppers, snails, silkworms and other invertebrates. I believe these to be an important means of providing dietary variety to a wide range of captive reptiles and amphibians. I have […]
A general principle of reptile-keeping holds that “several small meals are better than one”, but there is no denying the fascination aroused by the swallowing abilities of the giant constricting snakes. I myself, even after decades of working with large snakes in zoos, was stunned when a 17 foot long […]
Turtles have been much in the news as potential carriers of Salmonella, but many people do not realize that nearly any creature, including dogs and cats, can transmit the bacteria. Less well-known are the potential health problems posed by Micobacteria, many species of which thrive in aquariums housing fishes, amphibians, […]
[…]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 […]
[…]be kept in semi-aquatic terrariums that allow for swimming, but they must have access to warm, dry basking sites (branches over water work well). Shy specimens that will not bask should be moved into terrestrial situations with just a bowl of water available. Curing Blister Disease A Northern Water Snake […]
Please see Part I of this article for the exciting story behind the “re-discovery” of Australia’s Gold-Spotted Bell Frog (Litoria castanea), which was assumed by herpetologists to have been extinct since the 1970’s. Today I’d like to discuss my experiences breeding a close relative that sometimes appears in the pet […]
While working with Green Anacondas in the central Venezuela llanos (please see my article Hunting Anacondas in the Venezuelan Llanos) in the late 1990’s, I was delighted to find that Black Tegus, one of my favorite lizards, were quite common in the area. Sometimes referred to as “New World monitor […]
[…]They rarely stray far from water’s edge, but will forage on banks and in low brush. Basking occurs on floating plants, logs or the shore. Status They are common in suitable habitat, but threatened by the introduced Marine Toad, Bufo marinus, which is expected to colonize up to 80% of […]
Please see Part I of this article for general information on some of earth’s most toxic amphibians (if not creatures in general) and for additional newt-keeping observations. Tiny Newt vs. Giant Toad The familiar red-spotted or Eastern newt (Notopthalmus viridescens) is at its most toxic in the immature eft (land) […]
Providing a wide variety of live foods is one of the main stumbling blocks to keeping most frogs healthy in captivity. African Clawed Frogs (Xenopus laevis, and several related species), however, take non-living foods (i.e. carrion) in the wild, and therefore are quite easy to accommodate in captivity. Today I’d […]
Zoonotic diseases (those that can pass from animals to people) such Salmonella bacteria infections are a potential concern in the keeping of any pet. Many people associate Salmonella with reptiles, but nearly any animal, including dogs, cats and birds, may harbor this troublesome micro-organism. Handling an animal that carries Salmonella […]
Today I’d like to offer some gift suggestions for the herps and herp owners on your holiday shopping list. Several are items that we just never seem to think of, despite the fact that they can lighten our workload and improve our pets’ quality of life. Others can be classified […]
[…]is more likely if they are subjected to a winter cooling period (70F ambient, with a warmer basking site and a drop in temperature to 65F at night). Mating usually takes place in June-August, and the young, 4-18 in number, are born in October-December. They are 5-8 inches in length […]
Recent studies of a creature known as Nyasasaurus parringtoni indicate that dinosaurs may have appeared over 240 million years ago – 10-15 million years earlier than was previously believed. Its fossils, unearthed in Tanzania, also shed light on where dinosaurs first arose and how they spread to new environments. I’ve […]
[…]green anoles. The Zoo Med Reptile Halogen Bulb is ideal for providing UVA, along with heat for the basking site. For larger cages, a Mercury Vapor Bulb will supply UVB over a greater distance than will a florescent bulb. The ambient air temperature should be 84-87 F, with a basking […]
[…]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 not expire in the manner […]
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 […]
Measuring up to 45.6 inches in length and armed with the teeth and attitude of an angry watersnake, the Two-Toed Amphiuma (Amphiuma means) is the largest of North America’s amphibians. Although quite a handful, it is also a fascinating creature, and with proper care may live past the 30 year […]
Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. It’s hard for snake enthusiasts not to be taken in by the Eastern hognose snake, Heterodon platyrhinos. It puts on an incredible defensive display, it’s stout, viper-like body is variably patterned in many hues and its natural history is quite unique. However, a preferred diet of […]
The following article is writen by That Reptile Blog Guest Blogger Joseph See and contains information that may be of interest to our readers. Hello all, I am Joseph See. As a college student working towards a degree in biology, I thought I would write about a very underrated […]
Herp and invertebrate enthusiasts are never at a loss for frightening, even “ghoulish” (to “regular” people) stories. With Halloween just around the corner, I’d like to highlight some creatures whose names or habits associate them with this holiday. Some, such as Thailand’s fanged, bird-eating frog and the skin-feeding Caecilian, are […]
[…]Cork bark should be provided as an above-ground hiding spot. Temperatures of 78-80 F, with a basking spot of 90 F, are sufficient. Night-viewing bulbs can be used to provide heat without disturbing the snakes at night, and should aid in observing their nocturnal activities Those I’ve kept fed well […]
[…]security offered by vegetation (please see article below). Temperatures of 78-80F (85-88F at the basking site) suit them well. Shredded bark makes an ideal substrate. If sprayed each day it will help maintain the high humidity favored by Flying Snakes…just be sure it dries within an hour or so and […]
Formulating a balanced diet for medium to large sized insectivorous reptiles and amphibians poses a unique set of problems. Large insects are difficult to come by in sufficient quantities, and rodents, as we shall see, are often a poor substitute. Canned insects, especially large grasshoppers, offer a convenient and healthful […]
Whether you prefer modern day or ancient reptiles and amphibians, 2014 was a banner year for new species discoveries. From dancing and thorn-bearing frogs to giant flying reptiles, there was something to evoke wonder in just about everyone. The following represent just the tip of the “new species iceberg”…please be […]
I always advise young students intent on reaching fame to study invertebrates…uncounted millions remain to be discovered, even in such unlikely places as Manhattan’s Central Park (a centipede, in recent years). Almost every week, an exciting new insect, arachnid, crustacean, or other invertebrate is uncovered, and some of those found […]
The global extinction crisis faced by amphibians has been much in the news in recent years, as have threats to sea turtles, Madagascar’s tortoises, Asia’s freshwater turtles and other long-suffering groups. In the USA, a number of reptile and amphibian species are also in dire straits despite, in some cases, […]
[…]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 […]
The responsive 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 […]
[…]dominance hierarchy, based largely upon size. Those at the top may inhibit others from feeding and basking, so be sure to offer numerous basking and feeding opportunities and sight barriers. Immature males are difficult to distinguish from females. Watch smaller animals as they mature and remove any males, as […]
[…]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 […]
The Argentine, Pac Man or Ornate Horned Frog (Ceratophrys ornata) may be the world’s most popular amphibian pet. Beautiful and “charmingly” pugnacious, Horned Frogs require relatively little space despite their “salad bowl” size, and may live to age 20 or more. In a close second among frog fans is the […]
Intestinal blockages and impactions (and related digestive ailments) most often occur when a pet reptile or amphibian ingests substrate along with food, although sometimes an inappropriate diet (i.e. one consisting largely of mealworms) is to blame. My most unusual “blockage memory” involves a Cuban crocodile (Crocodylus rhombifer) under my care […]
[…]herps “become bored” with crickets, mealworms and other staples. A Link between Diet and Basking Behavior The researchers conducting the 1990 prey-choice study theorized that reptiles may be able to track their nutrient intake, and then select prey accordingly…in essence balancing their diet. Fast forward to 2011, when some very […]
[…]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 […]
Click: Captive Care of the Ball or Royal Python, Python regius – Part 1, to read the first part of this article. Or, click: The Natural History of the Ball Python, Python regius: Ball Pythons in the Wild to read about the natural history of Ball Pythons. Feeding Most ball pythons […]
Browsing the pages of Herpetologica and other journals over the years, I several times came across field studies indicating that certain populations of savannah monitors consumed diets composed entirely of invertebrates. In certain seasons, the lizards gorged on either locusts or land snails exclusively for months on end. When […]
I frequently recommend wild-caught invertebrates as food for captive herps, birds, invertebrates and fishes. Today I’d like to address the thoughtful comments posted by some of our blog readers regarding potential pesticide contamination. Secondary Poisoning Secondary poisoning, the killing of animals other than the species that is the target […]
[…]least 30 – 55 gallons (“long models are best”). They require a source of UVB light and a basking site that reaches 90 F or so. Diet Although they are often fed pink mice and small rodents in captivity, the natural diet of this species consists largely of insects. The […]
[…]can be defensive, but most calm down quickly. They do well at 72-78 F, with a warmer basking site, readily accept mice and small rats, and provide a great introduction to the breeding of egg-laying snakes. Eastern Kingsnake, Lampropeltis getula Another snake enthusiast’s favorite, the 7 subspecies of the Eastern […]
[…]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 […]
Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. Although they are among the heaviest of the world’s frogs, African Bullfrogs, Pyxicephalus adspersus, do well in modestly-sized terrariums. And by “doing well” I mean that they regularly live into their 20’s and 30’s…one even reached 51 years of age! These amazing creatures stretch the limit […]
[…]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 […]
[…]but they need a hand on occasion. We also trimmed overgrown banks to let in sunlight and improve basking opportunities for resident Eastern painted turtles and added tree stumps to the shallows. On return visits to the river, the children were happy to see both turtles and water snakes utilizing […]
Decades of work in zoos and the pet trade has, I believe, given me a unique perspective on the contributions that each can make to amphibian conservation. Over the years, I have been greatly influenced by the work of private keepers who, in some cases, bred rare species long before […]
[…]afforded a temperature gradient of 78-85 F; nighttime temperatures should not dip below 75 F. The basking site should be kept at 110-120 F. Incandescent bulbs may be used by day; ceramic heaters or red/black reptile “night bulbs” are useful after dark. Provide your monitor with the largest home […]
[…]Heat and Humidity Anaconda enclosures should be maintained at 78-86 F, and provided with a basking site of 95 F. A temperature gradient is important to their health, and can only be effectively established in a large enclosure. Bulbs located within cages must be protected by wire guards. Heat pads […]
[…]daytime period of 12-14 hours should be established. Heat Ambient temperatures of 82-88 F, with a basking spot of 90-95 F, will suit most (please post below for information on individual species). Incandescent spotlights may be used by day; ceramic heaters or red/black reptile “night bulbs” are useful after dark. […]
In part 1 of this article we’ll examine the natural history of this heaviest and possibly longest of all snakes. The Green Anaconda (Eunectes murinus) has generated a great many stories – through field research, I’ve had several opportunities to ferret out some interesting details behind these (please see article […]
[…]gradient of 75-82 F. An incandescent bulb or sub-tank heat pad should be used to create a basking spot of 90 F. A ceramic heater, heat pad, or red/black reptile night bulb can be employed to provide heat after dark. Diet Not nearly as picky as its east […]
Please see Part I of this article for background information on substrate and food related intestinal impactions, including some interesting stories from the field. Substrates for Aquatic Animals Surinam toads, mata-mata turtles, axolotls, mudpuppies and other wide-mouthed aquatic animals that utilize suction (the flow of water into the gaping mouth) […]
[…]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 regularly […]
[…]write in with your questions and comments. Thanks, until next time, Frank Indiviglio Basking Muggars image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by Kminoj Marsh Crocodile image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by […]
Breeding reptiles is one of the most rewarding and enjoyable aspects of our hobby. It is quite important as well, as zoos have neither the time nor space to care for all the species that are, or will soon be, in need of help. Relatively common reptiles also deserve attention, […]
Madagascar’s Mantellas or Golden Frogs (Family Mantellidae) are, in many ways, the ecological equivalents of Latin America’s Poison Frogs (Family Dendrobatidae), and illustrate nicely the concept of convergent evolution – unrelated animals from different parts of the world that have developed similar adaptations. Although less commonly kept than the poison […]
[…]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 […]
I’ve received a number of questions lately from herp enthusiasts (and “regular people”!) who have come across cold-stunned reptiles and amphibians in Florida. Cuban Knight Anoles, Green Tree Frogs and many other species have been severely impacted by the record-breaking cold weather. Burmese Pythons A colleague’s comment on cold weather […]
I have belonged to local herpetological 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 […]
[…]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 […]
[…]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) […]
[…]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 […]
[…]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). […]
Various land crabs have long been available in the pet trade, but despite their brilliant colors and fascinating behaviors, few have caught on among terrarium keepers here in the USA. This changed a bit when several spectacularly-colored species, usually sold as Vampire Crabs or Red Devils, began showing up in […]
[…]are intolerant of each other. If several females are kept, horizontal and diagonally oriented basking sites (these are preferred over vertical branches) should be plentiful, as dominant animals will exclude others from these important areas. Anoles do best in complex exhibits, especially those with live plants. They are quite easy […]
[…]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. […]
Today I would like to offer a look at how I set up a terrarium for animals in my own collection. After decades keeping animals privately and professionally, my techniques have become a fusion of tried and true methods and ideas that I have either worked out or (often!) stumbled […]
[…]Spring is prime hiking time, and also when snakes are most likely to be encountered while basking, seeking mates, or searching for meals after the long winter’s fast. The recent experience of one of our readers, whose Arizona property was frequented by Mojave Rattlesnakes, spurred me to look into the […]
[…]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, […]
[…]article we’ll take a look at some of the UVA-Emitting Bulbs currently available at ThatFishPlace/ThatPetPlace. Description UVA light has a wavelength of 320-400 nanometers (a nanometer measures 1 thousandth of 1 millionth of a meter…don’t ask me how that was figured out!) and is visible to herps and many invertebrates, […]
[…]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 […]
A recent (April, 2011) report that over 200 people contracted Salmonella from captive Dwarf Clawed Frogs (Hymenochirus boettgeri and H. curtipes) has pet owners concerned and seeking advice. The story has also re-ignited discussions about the wisdom of keeping African Clawed Frogs, Xenopus laevis, turtles and other amphibians and reptiles. Unfortunately, […]
[…]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, […]
[…]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 is the fact that captives can suffer blockages […]
Click: The Marine or Cane Toad, Bufo marinus (Rhinella marina) in Nature and Captivity – Marine Toads as Pets – Part 1 to read the first part of this article. Many pet keepers feed their toads heavily on pink and even adult mice. This is a bad idea and will […]
I’m often contacted by Arachnid and millipede owners who are concerned about the tiny white “specks” that they notice crawling about their terrariums and on their pets. In almost all cases, the little beasts turn out to be relatively harmless Mites. Mites are actually Arachnids, related to spiders and scorpions, […]
[…]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 […]
[…]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 […]
Although my interests are wide, newts and salamanders have always held a special fascination for me. Beginning in childhood, I sought to keep and breed as many species as possible, and I focused on their husbandry and conservation when I entered the zoo field. In time, I wrote a book […]
[…]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 […]
Newts of all kinds are very popular with amphibian keepers. Although most in the trade are quite small, one of the hardiest and most personable is a true newt giant. The attractive Spanish Ribbed Newt (Pleurodeles waltl) can reach 12 inches in length, and is stoutly-built. They are easy to […]
[…]essential. Heat, Humidity and Light 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. A ceramic heat emitter or under tank heat pad can be used to warm the air and create a basking site. […]
Over 30 years ago, a good friend and Bronx Zoo coworker amassed what was almost certainly the USA’s largest and most varied tarantula collection. He personally collected many of the spiders, and established several notable breeding firsts. Then as now, the massive Goliath Bird Eating Spider or Goliath Tarantula (Theraphosa […]
[…]overnight in a few inches of warm water and assisted with a Reptile Shedding Aid. Light and Heat A basking site of 95F or so should be provided, with an ambient temperature of 82-85 F. A nighttime dip to 68-72 F is beneficial. Blue Tongue Skinks can utilize dietary Vitamin […]
[…]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 […]
[…]determined color change. Please see this article for details. Chameleons will also modify their basking behavior in response to the Vitamin D levels in their diet (and I thought we had UVB needs all figured out!); please see this article to read more. Chameleons as Pets Chameleons are much desired […]
[…]of either sex may, by their mere presence or actual aggression, prevent others from utilizing the basking sites. The actual perch that is to be used as a basking area should be positioned so that it is an optimal distance (as regards UVB output) from the light source. This distance […]
[…]choose one designed for desert-dwelling lizards (i.e. the Zoo Med 10.0 Bulb) and position the basking site within 6-12 inches of it. Mercury vapor and halogen bulbs broadcast UVB over greater distances, and also emit beneficial UVA radiation. Be sure to provide shaded areas as well. Collared Lizards require a […]
Salamanders and newts, often overlooked by pet keepers, zoos and environmentalists alike, are getting some much-needed exposure this year. Led by the Partnership for Amphibian and Reptile Conservation, a consortium of environmental groups has designated 2014 as the Year of the Salamander. I’m very pleased, as past efforts, including […]
[…]UVB output has declined, you can move the lamp to a situation where it can be placed closer to a basking site or perhaps use it for a species that has lower UVB requirements. You can read about Zoo Med’s new program […]
[…]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” http://bitly.com/MS35s9 are useful after dark. Provide your monitor with the largest home possible, so that a thermal gradient (areas of […]
Charles Darwin said of the lowly earthworm (Lumbricus terrestris): “It may be doubted that there are many other animals which have played so important a part in the history of the world as these lowly organized creatures”….this in deference to the fact that the 50,000 earthworms that may populate each […]
Several years ago, we learned that female Caecilians (odd, legless amphibians) of some species grow extra layers of skin with which to feed their young. This unbelievable feeding strategy was first documented on film in the BBC series Life in Cold Blood, and is among the most fascinating (if chilling!) […]
I’ve studied and cared-for a great many frog species in my time, but count the robust Smokey Jungle Frog, also known as the South American Bullfrog (Leptodactylus pentadactylus), as one of the most beautiful and mysterious of all. I’ve been very fortunate in having bred this frog in captivity, and […]
[…]chameleons. Further Reading Chameleon Color Change: Advertising and Camouflage Chameleon Basking Influenced by Vitamin D Levels in Blood Veiled Chameleon […]
Unprecedented declines in amphibian populations have been much in the news lately. Linked to a number of factors, including an emerging disease (Chytrid fungus infection), frog extinctions are being documented the world over, and herpetologists are scrambling to save those that remain. Yet the international trade in frog legs remains […]
Click: My Animal Collection: How a Herpetologist Keeps American Toads, Bufo (Anaxyrus) americanus and Related Species, Part I, to read the first part of this article. Temperature American toads are, in contrast to many amphibians, quite resilient in terms of temperature tolerance. However, they do best at moderate temperatures, and […]
[…]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 […]
The St. Lucia Racer or Ornate Ground Snake, Liophis ornatus, has the unenviable distinctions of being both the world’s rarest snake and the species with the smallest range…it may even be the rarest creature on the planet. The entire population – 11 individuals at last count – is confined to […]
[…]should be modified to provide a large water area. Resting sites such as cork bark slabs or basking platforms should be provided. Due to their unique egg-laying behavior (females fold a plant leaf around each egg), crested newts slated for breeding are best housed in well-lit aquariums stocked with live […]
[…]others I’ve kept at that temperature have not left the water, despite being provided with a basking light as well. The second observation involves a female clawed frog that laid eggs in absence of a male. That in itself is unusual, as most frogs utilize amplexus (the male grasps the […]
While working at the Bronx Zoo, I had the once-in-a lifetime opportunity of helping to import and care for one of the largest snakes in captivity. While “largest snake” debates are ongoing, the massive Reticulated Python I came to know was awe-inspiring by any standard. Dubbed “Samantha”, she was captured […]
Successful aquarists know the importance of monitoring the nitrogen cycle, and the lessons I learned while working for fish importers and sellers have served me well when caring for all manner of creatures. When I began my career in zoos, I was surprised to find that reptile and amphibian […]
[…]forest. Although a ground-dweller, the bearded dragon climbs well and uses rocks and stumps as basking sites and as platforms from which to launch attacks on insects moving about below. Diurnal, it basks at temperatures of 125 F for short periods and shelters in self-dug burrows during extremely hot or […]
In Part I of this article we looked at the importance of calcium, leaf litter and decaying wood in the diet of the African giant millipede (Achispirospreptus gigas) and its relatives. Research Needed Few field studies have been made of millipedes in the wild, and we therefore know little about […]
[…]from desert fringes and dry savannahs, Dabb Lizards require ambient temperatures of 86-95F, and basking sites of 100-120F; a sharp dip in temperature at night is beneficial, and a “winter” is necessary to induce breeding behavior in many species. As would be expected, they fare poorly if not provided with […]
[…]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, […]
[…]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 […]
In 2010, I highlighted a study that documented steep declines in a number of snake species. Despite disturbing similarities to the “Disappearing Amphibian Crisis”, the snake situation seems not to have generated widespread concern. In my own career as a herpetologist, opportunities to become involved in snake conservation were also […]
[…]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 […]
[…]maintained at a range of 79-85 F for most species. Incandescent bulbs should be used to create a basking site. While some do well with basking sites set at the more-or-less “standard” lizard temperatures of of 90-95 F, many monitors need to warm themselves to 120 F or even higher; […]
The world’s 250,000+ fly species figure importantly in the diets of a wide range of smaller creatures…this makes sense, as approximately 1 in every 10 animal species is a fly! My first attempt at culturing Houseflies began with a fish-baited jar and ended with a house full of buzzing […]
[…]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 […]
[…]garter, ribbon and water snakes do best at an ambient temperature of 72-82 F, with a warmer basking site (90-95 F) and a drop to 68 F or so at night. Northern species should ideally be subjected to a winter cooling-off period, even if breeding is not contemplated. UVA Light […]
[…] 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 […]
[…]direct sunlight, and seem to adjust their exposure to the sun by changing positions. This apparent basking behavior lasts for up to 35 minutes, after which the frogs spend some time in the water before returning to the rocks. Goliath Frogs hunt along stream borders at night. There is some […]
[…]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 […]
[…]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 […]
Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. Green Anacondas (Eunectes murinus) and other giant constrictors inspire tall tales among those not well-acquainted with them, and respect in those who are. African Rock and Reticulated Pythons have taken humans as prey (please see this article), and Burmese Pythons have caused fatalities, but information concerning […]
An amazing array of newly-discovered reptiles and amphibians grabbed our attention this past year. The unexpected discoveries of an undescribed Leopard Frog in New York City and a Rainbow Skink in an Australian backyard reminded us that wonderful surprises surround us, if only we take the time to look and […]
Bulldog-like faces, calm dispositions, and fascinating behaviors – not to mention the stunning colors of many species – place Uromastyx Lizards high on the “must have” lists of serious lizard fans and zoos alike. Also known as Dab Lizards or Spiny-Tailed Mastiguerres, North African and Egyptian Uromastyx Lizards (Uromastyx acanthinura […]
Please see Part I and II of this article for information on scorpion natural history and further details on emperor scorpion care. The captive reproduction of emperor scorpions is a most interesting endeavor (for hobbyists and, I imagine, the scorpions themselves!). When properly housed and cared for, emperor scorpions are […]
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 […]
[…]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 […]
[…]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 […]
Please see Part I of this article for tips on using oyster shell for desert dwelling lizards and tortoises. Today we’ll explore the use of rabbit pellets for herbivorous reptiles and their important role in preventing leg deformities in hatchling tortoises. Rabbit Pellets for Hatchling Tortoises Rabbit pellets? Yes…surprisingly, rabbit […]
[…]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 […]
Emperor Scorpions give birth to live young, and most hobbyists are thrilled when this happens.However, scorpion reproduction breaks many of the “rules” that apply to other pets.For example, a female that has been alone for 14 months may one day be found with 30 tiny white youngsters, or “scorplings”, on […]
[…]Pythons, resulting in at least 6 fatalities! Please see People as Python Prey http://blogs.thatpetplace.com/thatreptileblog/2012/01/30/people-as-python-prey-giant-snakes-attack-150-kill-6-in-philippines/#.UxehEYVnupE for details. Some years ago, animal keepers visiting from the Singapore Zoo informed me that a free-ranging Reticulated Python took a 40 pound Cape Hunting Dog from an outdoor exhibit. Please see this article http://blogs.thatpetplace.com/thatreptileblog/2013/09/12/rock-python-kills-full-grown-husky-in-florida/#.Uxfl3oVnupE […]
Articles on holiday over-eating always appear as Thanksgiving approaches. Throughout my career as a zookeeper, a variety of creatures have amazed me with their abilities to consume massive meals. Reptiles and amphibians are the most impressive diners, with a 60 pound deer, swallowed by a wild Green Anaconda, being my […]
[…]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 […]
Those with an interest in frogs and toads will never be bored…among the 6,200 known species are found some of the world’s most fascinating and unusual animals. Many amphibian pets may, with proper care, live for 10, 20 or even 50 years, and can be wonderful animals to keep and […]
[…]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 […]
In Part I of this article we discussed the origin and current state of the problems associated with the long term use of goldfishes as a staple food for reptiles and amphibians. Bait and Tropical Fishes Fathead minnows, golden shiners and related fishes are preferable to goldfishes as a reptile […]
From minute House Geckos to massive Water Monitors and endangered Rhinoceros Iguanas, an amazing array of fascinating lizards is now available in the pet trade. Fortunately, many are being bred in captivity, and new discoveries concerning their needs occur regularly. But the range of choices of pet lizards can be […]
We amphibian enthusiasts are a lucky bunch. The world is populated by 6,389 frog and toad species, and new ones are discovered regularly. Among them we find frogs that have sheathed claws, lack lungs and defend their young from lions, along with toads that breed in salt marshes and bear […]
Introduction The snake world is full of species that “break the mold” – none more so than a Southeast Asian import that sometimes appears in the trade, the tentacled snake. The care of this snake differs greatly from that of all others, and I’ll devote a full article to it […]
[…]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 […]
[…]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 […]
The Influence of Hobby and Food-Species Research As compared to the aquarium hobby, the keeping of reptiles and amphibians in captivity is a relatively new development. Far more time and research has gone into the development of products designed for fish and aquatic invertebrates than is the case for […]
When it comes to inventive – some might say bizarre – breeding habits, amphibians are without equal. Several, such as the skin-brooding Surinam Toad, are well-known, but recent studies have revealed others that could not have been predicted – i.e. tree-dwelling tadpoles that consume bark and others that gorge upon […]
[…]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 […]
The house cricket is something of an insect oddity…at once both an adaptable, widely introduced species and a somewhat delicate captive. Native to southwestern Asia, it fares poorly in the damp conditions favored by field crickets and other North American species. Providing a Water Source: the advantages of gels House […]
[…]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 […]
I can’t remember a time when scorpions did not fascinate me, and their lure grows stronger with each new species I encounter. In the past, I’ve written on the care and natural history of Emperor, Flat Rock, Asian Forest and other popular scorpions. Today I’d like to present a general […]
[…]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 […]
[…]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 […]
[…]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 […]
Be it the discovery of a new species in the middle of NYC or the revelation that Mimic Poison Frogs are monogamous, frog enthusiasts are accustomed to surprises. But those revealed in the last few years have been especially interesting and unexpected…frogs with sheathed claws, tadpoles that feed upon […]
[…] 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 […]
[…]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 […]
Note: Please see my article Product Review: Gel Based Water Sources for House Crickets for additional information on cricket-keeping. According to studies carried out at the Bronx Zoo, house crickets, Acheta domestica, should be allowed to feed for at least 48 hours before themselves being offered to captive reptiles and amphibians as […]
I’ve kept toads at home and in zoos for over 50 years, yet I remain enamored of even the most common local species. Others of my generation, be they herpetologists or hobbyists, feel the same…it’s hard to dislike a toad! As pets, toads are generally far more responsive and “aware” […]
[…]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 […]
I’ve covered a number of less-commonly kept food animals in this care guide, along with pet trade staples. Please consider as many as you can, as dietary variety is critical to the health of most pets. The extra effort on your part will be very worthwhile…novel foods also inspire enthusiastic […]
Providing career advice is one of the most rewarding aspects of my work. There are many resources available to aspiring zoologists and herpetologists, but deciding the best path to take can be a confusing process. Today I’d like to provide some guidelines drawn from my experiences and those […]
[…]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 […]
Snakes are well known for their abilities to survive long fasts – up to 2 years in some cases – without ill effect. Working with ball pythons, diamondback rattlesnakes and various rat snakes, researchers at the University of Arkansas have recently shown that fasting snakes slow their metabolisms by up […]
[…]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 […]
[…]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 […]
In the late 1980’s I was privileged to breed the now rarely-seen Smoky Jungle Frog, Leptodactylus pentadactylus, a large (8 inch snout-vent length) Latin American native that constructs foam nests on land. In the wild, rain washes the tadpoles into a nearby pool, where they develop in normal frog fashion…following […]
[…]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 […]
In the year 2000 I had the good fortune to work with the world’s sole surviving group of Kihansi Spray Toads (Nectophrynoides asperginis). Last seen in the wild in 2004, and declared extinct in nature soon after, the 499 individuals sent to the Bronx and Toledo Zoos represented the species’ […]
[…]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 […]
Please see Parts I and II of this article for information on growing terrestrial and aquatic food plants for reptiles and amphibians. Aquatic Invertebrates A startling variety of aquatic invertebrates will likely establish themselves in almost any body of standing water, be it a backyard pond or a container of […]
Recently I posted an article about native treefrogs in my own collection: My Animal Collection: How a Herpetologist Keeps Barking Treefrogs (Hyla gratiosa) and Gray Treefrogs (Hyla versicolor). Today I’d like to add some thoughts on another US native, the very attractive green treefrog. Please see my earlier article for […]
Children the world over are often introduced to amphibians when they come across their first toad. Far bolder than typical frogs (and much easier to catch!) most take the indignity of capture by grubby little hands in stride, and leave all who encounter them with a favorable impression. With few […]
For as long as I can recall, distinguishing between young African clawed frogs (Xenopus laevis) and adult dwarf clawed frogs (Hymenochirus boettgeri or H. curtipes) has been problematical for many frog keepers (and pet store employees!). The question is more than academic, because both are exceedingly common and popular in […]
Writing in the current issue of the journal Animal Behavior, researchers from the University of Grenada report that female Mexican lance-headed rattlesnakes frequently consume infertile eggs and non-living young after giving birth. This is said to be the first documented case of cannibalism among rattlesnakes (please see below for […]
While most people acknowledge that spiders perform a valuable service by consuming harmful insects, there remains the lingering belief that the vast majorities are dangerously venomous, and do more harm than good. Today I’d like to pass along some facts and figures that you may find interesting. Venom All spiders […]
[…]not vibrate under regular light…you may wish to consider using night viewing bulbs http://www.thatpetplace.com/pet/cat/infoL3/23921/category.web in your quest to uncover further surprises. Further Reading Vibrations are also important to this species’ eggs – they hatch spontaneously when attacked by snakes. Read more here. For more info on frog hand signals, please […]
[…]City’s 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 […]
Springtails are minute, primitive, wingless insects classified in the Order Collembola. Over 6,000 species are found in most temperate and tropical habitats, where they figure importantly in the diets of Poison Frogs (Dendrobates, Phyllobates, Oophaga), small salamanders and newly metamorphosed amphibians of many kinds. Please see Part I of this […]
[…]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 […]
[…]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 […]
In terms of the sheer number of species and of individual animals, Anoles may be the most successful of all lizard groups. Each year, herpetologists add several new discoveries to the total species count – which now stands at 388! In Anole-rich regions, several seemingly-similar species manage to co-exist in […]
[…]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 […]
[…]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 […]
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 […]
[…]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. […]
You’ll need to search long and hard to find a frog more bizarre than South America’s Surinam toad. Large and flat, with a pointed head and star-shaped sensory organs tipping the fingers, this tongue-less aquatic beast broods tadpoles below the skin of its back….need I say more? “Handle With Care” […]
Assassin Bugs, while not the best known of invertebrate pets, are actually quite popular with insect specialists and in public collections. I began working with 2 African species in the early 80’s, and soon built up a collection of native forms as well. Recent studies at Australia’s Macquarie University have […]
Most invertebrate keepers have noticed that individuals of the same species often behave quite differently under the same circumstances. For example, one Giant Bird-Eating Spider might feed in broad daylight and be content to remain in the open, while another refuses to eat unless provided with a deep burrow and […]
Central and South American frogs of the family Dendrobatidae secrete virulent skin toxins (histrionicotoxins, batrachotoxins and others) when disturbed. Many people believe that the toxins of many species of Poison Frogs, known also as “Poison Arrow Frogs” and “Dart Poison Frogs”, were once used to coat darts and arrows used […]
Please see Part I of this article for further information.Last time we took a look at the amazing diversity of tiny invertebrates that inhabit leaf litter, and their importance as food for small terrarium animals such as poison frogs, dwarf leaf chameleons, and young frogs, lizards, mantids and scorpions. Collecting […]
[…]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. […]
I frequently promote the use of canned insects as a means of providing a balanced, varied diet to amphibian and reptile pets…in my experience, very little is as important as this one factor. Free living reptiles and amphibians consume dozens, and in some cases hundreds, of prey species, and rarely […]
Many frogs and toads that are collected or purchased and kept as pets will greedily accept crickets and mealworms, the food items most easily obtained from pet stores. Most thrive on this fare for a time, but eventually develop nutritional disorders and expire long before they have reached their potential […]
Although many salamanders will eagerly gobble-up crickets and mealworms, a diet restricted to these food items usually leads to nutritional disorders and reduced life-spans. This holds true even if supplements are used. A varied diet is essential if you are to have success in keeping salamanders long-term (my 32 […]
Despite my very wide interests (my career with animals has, quite literally, spanned ants to elephants!), I’ve always been partial to newts and salamanders. I focused on them from my earliest days working for the Bronx Zoo, and had the good fortune to author two books on their care and […]
This article is one of a series in which I will provide a brief introduction to both popular and rarely-kept amphibians, reptiles and invertebrates. I’ll cover such topics as unique habits in the wild, common mistakes or concerns in captive care, pet pros and cons, little-known husbandry tips and so […]
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 […]
The Domestic, Brown or House Cricket, Acheta domesticus, is the most widely-used live food for reptiles, amphibians, tarantulas, scorpions and other pets. At once hardy and delicate, it eats just about anything and is easy to breed, yet a colony can be wiped out in hours if conditions are not […]
This article is one of a series in which I plan to provide a brief introduction to both popular and rarely-kept amphibians, reptiles and invertebrates. I’ll cover such topics as unique habits in the wild, common mistakes or concerns in captive care, pet pros and cons, little-known husbandry tips and […]
Those of us who keep and breed small aquatic amphibians usually have a difficult time providing our pets with dietary variety. This is especially true as regards salamander larvae and other creatures that usually accept only live foods. In most cases, such animals must make do with the pet trade […]
The pine, bull and gopher snakes are a complex of 15 species that range from southern Canada through the United States and Mexico to Guatemala. Large (to 8 feet), powerful constrictors, most species are well-studied and long-established in captivity. The Black Pine Snake (Pituophis melanoleucus lodingi) remains, however, elusive in […]
Herp enthusiasts are, along with entomologists and exterminators, the only people who actively seek out termites – but we have good reason. These insects (fascinating in their own right, by the way) are a valuable food source for a number of reptiles and amphibians. Termites are particularly important for poison […]
[…]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 […]
Often compared to the Dart Poison Frogs in size, appearance and behavior, Mantellas are among the most highly desirable of all amphibian pets. Most are spectacularly colored – so much so that I’ve often had visitors to my exhibits at the Bronx Zoo ask if they are real! Indeed, many […]
[…]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 […]
North America is home to a great diversity of ratsnakes, many of which have long been bred in captivity. One of the more unique species to have become established in the trade is the Trans-Pecos Ratsnake, Bogertophis (formerly Elaphe) subocularis. Despite wide availability, its life in the wild remains largely […]
Click: The Natural History of the Ball Python, Python regius: Ball Pythons in the Wild – Part 1, to read the first part of this article. Status in the Wild This species is threatened across large areas of its range by collection for the food, leather and, in the past, […]
Surinam toads are well known for their bizarre reproductive strategy (please see article below), unusual appearance, large size and unique habitats. They make very interesting pets but, as most in the trade are wild-caught, present a few problems when first introduced into the aquarium. Last time we took a […]
Poison Frogs (also known as Dart or Arrow Poison Frogs) exhibit an amazing array of colors and patterns – some so spectacular as to appear unreal. What’s more, they are active by day, exhibit complex social behaviors, and care for their tadpoles in “mammal-like” fashion…and are not at all shy […]
With spring finally here, my thoughts are turning to growing food plants and collecting insects with which to feed my collection. Happily, these two activities are intertwined – plants attract insects, and insects pollinate plants. Garden-grown plants provide minerals and trace elements that are often difficult to supply otherwise, and […]
Beetle-keeping is a small but expanding hobby here in the USA, but is amazingly popular in Japan, where beetle larvae are even sold in vending machines (I experienced this first-hand, and can say they survive the ordeal quite well!). Beetles are classified in the order Coleoptera, which exceeds all other […]
In Part 1 of this article we discussed vitamin/mineral supplements for aquatic animals that accept prepared/non-living foods; included among these are African Clawed Frogs, Sharp-Ribbed and many other newts, and most water-dwelling turtles. Live Prey Specialists Animals that take live prey only are especially troublesome when it comes to supplementation, as […]
Introduction I’ve never quite understood why the aptly named Taiwan beauty snake did not soar in popularity as soon as it entered the pet trade. I was captivated by them from the moment I began looking after a group at the Bronx Zoo some 15 years ago, and added the […]
How does one satisfy a 9 pound amphibian!?” Although African bullfrogs are among the most popular and long-lived (to 50 years) of amphibian pets, there remains some confusion as to their proper diet in captivity. Prompted by recent blog inquiries, I thought I’d set down a few thoughts on […]
What DO Leopard Geckos Eat?! The Leopard Gecko, Eublepharis macularius, makes a wonderful pet for novices and advanced hobbyists alike (even after many years as a professional zookeeper, I enjoy keeping them, and wrote a book about their care). However, both sellers and buyers sometimes underestimate this delightful lizard’s needs, […]
The widespread Green Frog (Lithobates/Rana clamitans) often provides aspiring herpetologists with an introduction to frog-keeping. Please see Part I of this article for more on its natural history. Status in the Wild Although fairly common throughout much of its range, in some places the Green Frog is impacted by habitat […]
The Panamanian golden frog (Atelopus zeteki) is one of the world’s most highly endangered amphibians, but has entered the pet trade from time to time and is sometimes seen in private collections. I’ve had the good fortune of working with these Neo-Tropical gems at the Bronx and Staten Island Zoos, […]
To read the first part of this article, click here. General This and other poison frogs are among the most interesting amphibians of all to keep in the terrarium. They are colorful, active by day and quite willing to display a wide range of complex and fascinating behaviors when kept […]
[…]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 […]
Please see Parts I, II and III of this article for more on garter snake care. Diet In the wild, most garter snakes are opportunistic feeders…even road-killed frogs are taken on occasion (please see Part I). While most mammal-feeding snakes thrive on rodents alone, in my experience garter snakes do […]
Note: Please see Tarantulas in Captivity: An Overview of Popular Species for information on other species and an overview of tarantula-keeping. Sri Lankan Ornamental Tarantula, Poecilotheria fasciata Beautifully colored in gray and greenish-brown with an overlying pattern of light gray, these striking, arboreal tarantulas hail from Sri Lanka and neighboring southern […]
A Mudpuppy (Necturus maculosus) was the first large aquatic salamander I kept in captivity, and I remain as intrigued by them today as I was in childhood. Increasingly rare in the wild, Mudpuppies or Waterdogs make quite hearty captives if attention is given to their unique needs. Today we’ll take […]
Click: Emperor Scorpion, Pandinus imperator, Care – Part 1, to read the first part of this article. Heat, Humidity and Light Temperature should be maintained at 78-86 F, and humidity at 70-85%. Do not cover the terrarium’s top with plastic in order to increase humidity, as air circulation is desirable. […]
Long overshadowed by the wildly popular dart poison frogs, the equally tiny and beautiful mantella frogs are finally coming into their own. While most are spectacularly colored, the Baron’s Painted Mantella (Mantella baroni) seems to eclipse all others, at least in my opinion. It is also the largest species commonly […]
The green anole has long been a pet trade staple, but these active, attractively-colored little lizards have quite an interesting natural history as well. Today we’ll take a look at how they live and cope with people, and point out some of their special traits. Next week I’ll cover their […]
Watersnakes are largely ignored by herptoculturists, and I’ve never quite understood why. Hardy, prolific, and often colorful, their utilization of two habitats makes for very interesting observations. Today I’d like to focus on the northern watersnake (Nerodia sipedon sipedon), and to mention a few others. Description Background color varies through […]
Click: Surinam Toads (Pipa pipa) as Pets: Acclimating New Animals and Special Considerations – Part 1, to read the first part of this article. Arranging Shelters and Hiding Spots Give the frog as much cover as possible – plastic plants with weighted bases and others secured around rock ornaments or […]
Click here: The Natural History and Captive Care of the Mexican Axolotl, Ambystoma mexicanum: Natural History – Part 1, to read the first part of this article. Diet Mexican axolotls feed upon shrimp, aquatic worms, copepods, insects and other invertebrates and small fish. Adults are major predators upon small axolotls […]
[…]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. […]
See Feeding Pet African Bullfrogs Pyxicephalus adspersus – Part 1 for the first part of this article. How does one satisfy a 9 pound amphibian!? Wild-Caught Insects Native invertebrates, collected from pesticide-free areas, should be offered whenever possible. In my work with frogs of all types, I’ve found very little […]
As is true for tarantulas, reptile enthusiasts (myself included) are often interested in scorpions. Today I would like to provide an overview of these most ancient of animals (they were likely the first creatures to leave the sea for a terrestrial existence), with specifics concerning some readily available species […]
While working at the Bronx Zoo, I had the good fortune to breed Kihansi Spray Toads – an endangered species that gives birth to fully-formed toadlets – and the amazing skin-brooding Surinam Toad. Yet these are but two examples of the amazing diversity of odd frog breeding strategies, none of […]
[…]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 […]
[…]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. […]
Butterworms, also known as Trevo Worms, are highly nutritious caterpillars that deserve more attention from reptile, amphibian and invertebrate keepers. They have many of the advantages associated with wild-caught insects yet lack most of the risks. Their calcium content of 42.9 mg/100g (as compared to 14 and 3.2 mg/100g for […]
The African Clawed Frog, Xenopus laevis, is an extremely popular pet and lab animal. It is also one of the few amphibians that will sometimes reproduce “spontaneously” (that is, without being induced by artificial “rain storms” and other such tactics) in captivity. Yet there is precious little available concerning how […]
Frog owners have recently been presented with an interesting alternative to live insects and rodents as a pet food source. Continuing its trend of pioneering innovative, well-researched products, Zoo Med has introduced a powdered food that can be molded into various sizes and tong-fed to frogs. Although long-term studies on […]
Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. The orange-spotted or guyana roach, Blaptica dubia, often starts out as pet food but winds up as a pet. It’s small wonder, as these attractive insects are very interesting in their own right, and most agreeable to exhibiting their natural behaviors to the patient observer. Coming into Their […]
[…]course of my work as a reptile keeper at the Bronx Zoo, and now as a consultant for ThatFishPlace-ThatPetPlace, I’ve come-up with a list of important points that, if considered beforehand, will greatly improve life for both snake and snake owner. As always, please be sure to post any questions, […]
Among the world’s 900+ tarantula species (family Theraphosidae) we find a staggering diversity of sizes, colors, and lifestyles, and many that make interesting, long-lived pets. Having been involved with spider care in zoos and private collections from an early age (and at a time when only 1-2 tarantula species were […]
In recent years, researchers have found toxins in a wide array of snakes and lizards formerly believed to be harmless…even the Bearded Dragon is not above suspicion (please see below), but venomous pythons? While working at the Bronx Zoo, I was several times called upon to assist in confiscating snakes […]
It is with good reason that the Emperor Scorpion (Pandinus imperator) is so popular among pet-keepers and arachnid fans. One of the largest of the world’s 2000+ scorpions, the Emperor exhibits complex social behaviors, is generally mild-mannered, and breeds readily. However, one should not embark upon scorpion ownership without understanding […]
The world is home to a mind-boggling assortment of fascinating treefrogs, many of which make wonderful pets. Included among the 1,200+ species that have adapted to life above-ground we find tiny, colorful gems, giants that will feed from one’s hand, gliders that sail through the treetops and a host of […]
Breeding season aggression is a potentially serious concern for owners of male green iguanas. Spurred by reproductive hormones, mature males, even those which have been placid for years, may suddenly become dangerously aggressive. This most often, although not necessarily, occurs in the late winter to early spring in the […]
The Emerald Tree Boa is extremely popular in zoos and private collections, but its life in the wild remains relatively unstudied. What little we have learned has come mainly from chance observations rather than long-term studies. Cryptic coloration, nocturnal ways and a life spent high in tropical forest canopies or […]
Keepers of Poison Frogs, Mantellas, newly-transformed frogs, and other tiny amphibians face difficulties in providing their charges with a varied diet. Wild frogs consume dozens to hundreds of invertebrate species, but captives are usually limited to fruit flies, flour beetles, pinhead crickets and springtails. Vitamin/mineral supplements help, but dietary variety […]
The term “rear fanged” is applied to a variety of unrelated snakes that possess a venom-producing gland and 1-3 enlarged, grooved maxillary teeth in the rear of the mouth. We do not yet know how many species possess these venom-conducting teeth (“rear fangs”), but evidence indicates that snake venom evolved […]
Reptile and amphibian keepers know how hard it is to find veterinary care for their pets, but those who keep scorpions face even greater difficulties. I found one or two vets willing to experiment while working at the Bronx Zoo, but in private practice your options are just about non-existent. […]
[…]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 […]
Many of the world’s nearly 6,000 frog species make wonderful pets that may live for 10, 20 or even 50 years. Among them we find creatures that glide, brood their eggs in vocal sacs, form lifelong pair bonds and exhibit other fascinating behaviors. While the smallest is barely as large […]
Pickerel Frogs, Lithobates palustris, are “early risers” from winter hibernation and may travel quite far to reach their breeding ponds and summer habitats. As a result, they often become trapped in swimming pools, window wells and other such areas. Each spring I receive a number of requests for information concerning […]
Welcome to our new blog location! Please see here for more background information on this animal’s natural history and life cycle in the wild. General Despite living largely underground in the wild, captive spotted salamanders adjust well to artificial caves and shelters, where they are more easily observed. Well-adjusted captives quickly […]
Day Geckos, those brilliantly-clad gems of the lizard world, are growing in popularity in zoos and private collections alike. Small wonder – the 52 described species, all placed in the genus Phelsuma, are active by day (of course!) and, when properly kept, quite willing to breed and exhibit a wide […]
Occasionally I like to highlight animals that, while not suitable as pets, are none-the-less of great interest to reptile enthusiasts. The Aruba Island Rattlesnake, Crotalus unicolor, native to a place known more for its resorts than for reptiles, is one such beast…from diet to range to appearance, it is most […]
Snakes that feed solely upon insects, earthworms, spiders, snails and other invertebrates are a great choice for folks who would rather not handle rats and mice. They also have other attractive characteristics, including small size, inoffensive natures, and adaptability to naturalistic terrariums containing live plants. What’s more, most receive scant […]
“If insects were to vanish, the environment would collapse into chaos”. Expounding on this statement, noted entomologist E. O. Wilson went on to explain that, without insects and other invertebrates (animals without backbones), all life would grind to a halt. Yet while many pollinate plants, provide us with medicines and […]
During a long career zoo career that found me working with animals ranging from ants to elephants, I’ve had many occasions to review veterinary and pathology reports. In doing so, I’ve come to understand that zoonotic diseases – those that can pass from animals to people – are a potential […]
[…]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 […]
Ball Pythons in the Wild As recently as the early 1990’s, the now popular ball python was considered a troublesome captive, due largely to the prevalence of wild caught adults in the trade. Today it is widely bred in captivity, but certain of its natural traits continue to affect […]
[…]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 […]
[…]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, […]
I’ve always favored the boldly-marked Green and Black Poison (or “Dart”) Frog, Dendrobates auratus, over most of its relatives. This was a turn of good fortune for me, as this gorgeous creature is one of the largest and easiest of the poison frogs to maintain. It is also not at […]
[…] 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 […]
Among the world’s 900+ tarantula species (Family Theraphosidae) we find spiders of every conceivable size, description and lifestyle, some of which make interesting, long-lived pets. I had the chance to work with many during my zoo career, and most of the supplies that I relied upon are now readily available […]
Some might answer “as food for our reptiles, amphibians and arachnids”, while others would perhaps offer the standard “pollination” reply. Legendary entomologist E.O. Wilson, however, simply states: “If insects were to vanish, the environment would collapse into chaos”. He adds: “If all mankind were to disappear, the world would regenerate […]
Although salamanders are not defenseless, herp enthusiasts tend not to give their jaws the respect we accord snakes and other reptiles. Until, that is, they tangle with an angry Two Toed Amphiuma (Amphiuma means)! At a record length of 45.6 inches, this third longest of the world’s salamanders is a […]
Invertebrate enthusiasts have learned to expect the discovery of fantastic new species on a regular basis. But even old timers such as I were shocked by some that came to light this past year. Large, claw-bearing Cave Robber Spiders, giant bio-luminescent roaches, brilliant arboreal tarantulas, neon-colored freshwater crabs, dive-bombing wasps…the […]
Breeding frogs and rearing tadpoles is one of the most enjoyable aspects of our hobby, and becoming ever more important to the survival of many species. In the course of working with numerous species at home and in zoos, I’ve compiled a list of commercial foods that have proven especially […]
Hurricane Sandy, which hit the Northeastern USA in October of 2012, caused losses to both private herp keepers and zoos. My own collection, home to a 32+ year-old Red Salamander and several others aged 20+, thankfully fared very well. The zoos and aquariums for which I consult are working to […]
[…]provide UVA radiation as well. Heat The ambient air temperature should range from 82-88 F, with a basking spot of 95-100 F. Incandescent bulbs should be used to maintain these temperatures. At night, temperatures can dip to 75 F. A ceramic heater or red/black reptile night bulb can be used […]
Overview Every so often I like to cover a species that, while not recommended as a pet, is well worth a closer look. One such lizard that I have had the good fortune of working with is endemic to North America, the strikingly-marked Gila Monster. Note: Gila Monsters are bred […]
[…]also provide beneficial UVA. Heat The ambient air temperature should range from 82-95 F, with a basking spot of 95-100 F. Incandescent bulbs should be used to maintain these temperatures. A ceramic heater or red/black night bulb can be used after dark. Humidity Green Iguanas favor humidity levels of 65-75%, […]
[…]be expected, and fare best at a 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 […]
Throughout my long career as a zookeeper and pet keeper, I have used wild caught insects to improve the diets of the amphibians, reptiles, fishes, invertebrates and birds under my care. While some cautions apply, the benefits conferred by the nutritional value of such foods far outweigh the risks involved. […]
Overview The frilled dragon was a creature of legend to budding American herpetologists growing up in the 60’s and 70’s – we devoured what little published information existed, but seeing one alive was out of the question, short of a trip to its habitat. It is still hard for me […]
[…]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 […]
Over 900 of the world’s 40,000+ spider species are commonly known as tarantulas (family Theraphosidae). Among them we find a staggering diversity of sizes, colors, and lifestyles, and many species that make interesting, long-lived pets. In the early 1980’s, I had the chance to work with the huge collection of […]
Overview The spectacularly colored blue poison frog is now so well established in the pet trade that it seems hard to believe that the animal was not scientifically described until 1969 (by Dutch herpetologist M. Hoogmoed). The care of this highly desirable little frog is well understood, and I will […]
The wonderfully bizarre Malayan Leaf Frog, Megophrys nasuta, has always been a somewhat difficult species to keep. However, we now have a better understanding of its needs, and captive breeding is becoming more regular. As it turns out, the Malayan Leaf Frog’s reproductive behavior is as unusual as its appearance. […]
Overview Recently I wrote about those tiny jewels of the frog world, Latin America’s poison frogs (Article Part I and II). Today I’ll introduce you to a behemoth that is largely their direct opposite, the massive Marine Toad – at once one of the world’s most interesting and troublesome of […]
I began working with Poison Frogs and Mantellas in zoos just as the secrets to longevity and breeding were being discovered. Today, captive-bred animals are almost mainstream. This is wonderful, but there is a downside – they are sometimes viewed as “simple to keep”. But while these tiny gems can […]
Dwarf African Clawed Frogs, also known as Dwarf African Frogs (Hymenochirus boettgeri and H. curtipes) are very popular pets, yet few hobbyists attempt to breed them in captivity. Reproduction sometimes occurs spontaneously, but unless one is prepared, the eggs and tadpoles rarely survive. As both a lifelong frog enthusiast and […]
Although it’s below freezing here in NY, my thoughts are straying to a favorite warm-weather activity – collecting insects for my herp collection. Invariably, I find species that are new to me, and others that I wind up keeping alive in small terrariums. Drawing on a lifetime of collecting […]
People are often surprised to learn that Land or Terrestrial Hermit Crabs engage in complex social behaviors, are capable of communicating via “chirps” and, with proper care, may live for over 20 years. I’ve had the pleasure of working with them at home, in zoos and the wild, and have […]
That Reptile Blog – Reptile, Amphibian and Exotic Pet Care and Information
