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Why Do My Crickets Keep Dying?

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 […]

Spring Field Trips: Amphibians, Reptiles, Invertebrates, Birds

[…]ponds in southern Westchester County, NY, where, if the weather and amphibian gods favor us, spotted salamanders, wood frogs and spring peepers can be observed breeding on the same night. As the large, vividly-colored Spotted Salamanders have always been favorites of mine, and are the most elusive of the “Big […]
Read more » Spring Field Trips: Amphibians, Reptiles, Invertebrates, Birds

Tarantulas: Are They The Right Pet for You?

[…]species, but the best long term results will be achieved by providing a varied menu which includes roaches, waxworms, silkworms, grasshoppers, earthworms and other invertebrates.   The “It Doesn’t Do Anything” Factor Ideally, the new tarantula owner will be interested in her or his pet for its own sake. But […]

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

[…]4 months. Due to their large size (nearly 1/3 that of the mother) and unique coloration (orange with black rings) newborn Indian Sand Boas command high prices.   Unlike the young of other sand boas, they are large enough to take pinkies, and rarely “demand” lizards as food.   Temperament […]
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Care of the World’s Most Colorful Mantella: A Zookeeper’s Thoughts

[…]in length, it is still quite diminutive. Clad in a spectacular array of contrasting colors, with orange, black, yellow and green appearing to varying degrees on different individuals, it is well-named!   This species is easily confused with the Malagasy Painted Mantella (M. madagascariensis); tips and photos that will help […]
Read more » Care of the World’s Most Colorful Mantella: A Zookeeper’s Thoughts

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

[…]Geosesarma hagen and G. dennerle. Individuals vary in coloration, but in general they are bright orange and deep purple with cream blotches, respectively. Others I’ve kept, which exhibited similar lifestyles, sported shocking yellow eyes, brilliant red claws, and jet black carapace borders.   Land Crab Diversity As crab enthusiasts know, […]
Read more » Vampire Crab Care: 2 New Land Crab Species Found Among Pet Trade Animals

Do Newts and Salamanders Make Good Pets? Five Points to Consider

[…]and sow bugs.   Newts are simpler to feed than are terrestrial species, as nearly all (i.e. Red-Spotted, Crested, Paddle-tailed, Ribbed) will accept Zoo Med Aquatic Newt Food and Reptomin. These foods can anchor the diet, with live blackworms (sold in many pet stores as tropical fish food), guppies, chopped […]
Read more » Do Newts and Salamanders Make Good Pets? Five Points to Consider

Choosing the Best Turtle Filters: 10 Vital Points

[…]that require mere seconds to maintain, such as the Tetra Whisper In-Tank Filter.   Current Spotted, Bog and other turtles adapted to slow-moving water bodies cannot abide strong currents in their aquarium; the same is true for hatchlings of nearly all species. An overly-powerful filter outflow can even be a […]
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Frog Diets: Supplement Raises Poison Frog Egg Output & Tadpole Survival

[…]Function and Sources Various plant pigments known as carotenoids are responsible for the yellow-orange color of egg yolks and skin among a huge array of animals. They also play a role in neonatal health, benefit the immune system by acting as antioxidants and function in the reproductive system. Animals cannot […]
Read more » Frog Diets: Supplement Raises Poison Frog Egg Output & Tadpole Survival

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

[…]from southern China and forwarded to Florida (please see article linked below). Included among the Spotted Pond Turtles, Painted Terrapins, Spiny Turtles were a great many Asian Leaf Turtles (Cyclemys dentata). This impressive turtle had been a great favorite of mine ever since we first crossed paths decades earlier, during […]
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New Species Found: Colorful “Bug-Eyed” Aquatic Frog May be in Trouble

[…]in my mind, to those of the more familiar Buddget’s Frog) and a beautiful, bright yellow to orange abdomen.   The only known population occupies a narrow stream of the Huaytara River, located in a valley on the Pacific slope of the Peruvian Andes. Herpetologists were surprised by its discovery […]
Read more » New Species Found: Colorful “Bug-Eyed” Aquatic Frog May be in Trouble

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

[…]longevity for a Rosy Boa is 29+ years (living at time of publication), and many captives approach and exceed age 20.   Breeding Potential Both species breed reliably, and make an excellent introduction to this fascinating aspect of reptile-keeping. I especially like the fact that they bear live young, doing […]
Read more » Rosy Boa or Colombian Red-Tailed Boa? Choosing the Best Snake Pet

Monitor Lizards as Pets: Dumeril Monitor Care and Natural History

[…]sports a “typical” monitor build and averages 3-4 feet in length, with some individuals approaching 5 feet. Hatchlings and very young individuals are brilliantly clad in black and orange. Adults are attractively-marked in various shades of brown and tan. Extremely sharp claws (even by monitor standards!) assist it in climbing. […]
Read more » Monitor Lizards as Pets: Dumeril Monitor Care and Natural History

Pet Newts: Spanish Ribbed Newt Care and Breeding

[…]in color, but some exhibit yellow or green hues, while others are nearly black. Rows of yellow to orange “warts” (poison glands) line the upper edge of the body. Amazingly, distressed individuals will contract their bodies and force the ribs right through the back’s skin, directly over these glands. The […]
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New Species of 2014: Fantastic Reptiles, Amphibians and Pterosaurs

[…]common relative was something of a surprise.   Geminis’ Poison Frog is clad in “screaming” orange-red, similar to the related species pictured here, but without the areas of black coloration. It is known only from Panama’s Rio Belan Basin, where it seems limited to elevated sand ridges within rainforests. This […]
Read more » New Species of 2014: Fantastic Reptiles, Amphibians and Pterosaurs

New Species Found in 2014: Gymnastic Spiders and Other Invertebrates

[…]a few sea creatures glow in the dark, luminescence is rare among land dwellers. But the Lightening Roach, known from only a single specimen collected in Guatemala, has developed this ability to a remarkable degree. Entomologists theorize that this light-producing roach mimics a toxic, glowing click beetle found in the […]
Read more » New Species Found in 2014: Gymnastic Spiders and Other Invertebrates

Arachnids and Herps: A Zookeeper’s Scary Halloween Stories

[…]Crabs and numerous others are great creatures to investigate as the creepiest of holidays approaches. You can read more about them in this article.     Further Reading Tagging Anacondas in Venezuela Cobra and Python Escapes Working with Large […]
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Reptiles and Amphibians in Outdoor Pens or Ponds: Preparing for Winter

[…]had success in overwintering some aquatic species outdoors (i.e. Sliders, Snappers, Musk, Mud, Spotted and Painted Turtles, Green and Bullfrogs, Northern Watersnakes) but my best results were in large outdoor zoo exhibits rather than backyard ponds.   In both my pens and natural situations, I was several times surprised to […]
Read more » Reptiles and Amphibians in Outdoor Pens or Ponds: Preparing for Winter

Endangered Species Notes: Missing Frogs Found, Others Feared Extinct

[…]Simpsons TV show, the Monty Burns Toad had been hidden away in Columbia. Another surprise, a neon-orange Dart Poison Frog found in Panama, measures only 12.7 mm in length – the smallest among a huge array of tiny relatives. My favorites are the 14 species of Dancing Frogs recently found […]
Read more » Endangered Species Notes: Missing Frogs Found, Others Feared Extinct

Rainbow Snake Care: Keeping a Colorful but Difficult Aquatic Snake

[…]me in my tracks. Vivid red and yellow stripes line the blue-black body, while the underside is orange to red in color.   Smooth, glossy scales add to the brilliance of these colors. The tail’s terminal scale is hard and somewhat sharp, leading some to mistakenly believe that the Rainbow Snake […]
Read more » Rainbow Snake Care: Keeping a Colorful but Difficult Aquatic Snake

Pet Toads: Best Choices for Kids or First Time Pet Owners

[…]by zoos and hobbyists alike. Some of my favorite US natives include the Narrow-Mouthed, Red-Spotted, Spadefoot, Sonoran Green and Marine Toads.   Handling Toads learn very quickly where their meals lie, and will soon greet you as you approach their terrarium. They will even clamber up onto your hand to […]
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Why Do We Need Insects? – Some Amazing Facts and Figures

[…]Flies and Termites (Its True!) Say “insect pest” to most urbanites and the word “cockroach” comes to mind. Yet only 12 of the 4,500+ known species – or 0.3% – are household pests. The rest are important pollinators, decomposers, predators, and prey. Roach research has led to advances in understanding […]
Read more » Why Do We Need Insects? – Some Amazing Facts and Figures

Spotted Turtle Care: Is This Beauty the Perfect Small Turtle Pet?

[…]bred by hobbyists. Although somewhat shy at first, most soon learn to rush over for food when approached. Spotted Turtles must be watched carefully if housed in groups. Males often harass females with mating attempts, and may stress or bite them in the process. Males should not be kept together, […]
Read more » Spotted Turtle Care: Is This Beauty the Perfect Small Turtle Pet?

Butterworms as Reptile-Amphibian Food: Nutritional Content and Care

[…]on par with that of crickets, phoenix worms and waxworms, and below that provided by silkworms and roaches. Fat content stands at 5.21%, which is less than (considerably so, in many cases) that of all other commonly-used feeders.   Please Note: The nutritional needs of reptiles and amphibians vary by […]
Read more » Butterworms as Reptile-Amphibian Food: Nutritional Content and Care

I Found an Orange Salamander: Is it a Red Eft and Does it Make a Good Pet?

[…]Salamander has a wider distribution. Four subspecies have been described.   The olive-green, red-spotted adult newts are aquatic, and at one time were a pet trade mainstay. Many states now prohibit collection, but where ownership is legal they make wonderful introductions to amphibian care (please see the article below).   […]
Read more » I Found an Orange Salamander: Is it a Red Eft and Does it Make a Good Pet?

Pet Turtles: Ornate Wood Turtle Care and Breeding

[…]clad in subdued-to-vivid red and yellow blotches and eye-spots, and a complex pattern of red and orange lines marks the head. Adults average 7-8 inches in length, with males being the slightly-smaller sex.   Range and Habitat The four Ornate Wood Turtle subspecies range from Sonora, Mexico along the western […]
Read more » Pet Turtles: Ornate Wood Turtle Care and Breeding

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

[…]undergo a radical color change with maturity, by which time most are dark brown and bear rusty-orange spots on the belly and sides. Some adults, however, are nearly black in coloration, while the scales of others retain an orange tinge.  Few adults exceed 5 feet in length, with most topping […]
Read more » Savu Python Care: Keeping One of the World’s Smallest Pythons

My Frog’s Color is Fading! Diet Changes can Brighten Frog Colors

[…]Color: Why are Red Frogs Red? Pigments known as carotenoids are responsible for most of the orange, red and yellow coloration exhibited by frogs. Color is important not just from an aesthetic point of view (or a monetary one, for those who breed “designer frogs”!) but may also affect breeding […]
Read more » My Frog’s Color is Fading! Diet Changes can Brighten Frog Colors

Small Pet Turtles: Black-Breasted Leaf Turtle Care

[…]each marginal scute (scale) is pointed and flared upwards. The carapace ranges from dark to rich orange-brown in coloration, and the plastron is black with a yellow border. Adults top out at a mere 4-5 inches in length.   Leaf Turtle Natural History The Black-Breasted Leaf Turtle ranges from southern […]
Read more » Small Pet Turtles: Black-Breasted Leaf Turtle Care

Turtle Food: Pellets, Shrimp and other Prepared Diets

[…]Sidenecks, and Asian Box, Spotted and Painted Turtles, but is also useful for African Mud Turtles, Spotted Pond Turtles and others. I especially like the fact that it is available in both hatchling and adult formulas, with the levels of protein and other nutrients adjusted for each.   ReptiSticks This […]
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Turtles as Pets: New Species to Try in 2014

[…]making a comeback. It sports a yellow-rimmed, olive-gray carapace, with large, bright yellow or orange-yellow spots decorating the head.   The Yellow Spotted Sideneck inhabits northern and central South America, from Guyana, French Guiana and Venezuela to Columbia, Ecuador, northeastern Peru, northern Bolivia and Brazil; it may also be present […]

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

[…]variety of blotches, which vary in color from rust-red to black, mark the body.  Areas of red or orange usually adorn the head, and re-appear along the lower third of the body.  The jet black eye is encircled by brilliant orange.   Individual 100 Flower Snakes exhibit a mind-boggling array […]
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Amphibians as Pets: Care of Common and Unusual Types of Toads

[…]US natives that deserve more attention include the gorgeous desert-dwelling Sonoran Green and Red-Spotted Toads, the minute Narrow-Mouthed Toads and the subterranean, gnome-like Spadefoots.   The toad family contains the only live-bearing Anurans (Nectophrynoides and Nimdaphrynoides spp.)   One of these, the Kihansi Spray Toad, was declared extinct in the wild […]
Read more » Amphibians as Pets: Care of Common and Unusual Types of Toads

Giant Day Gecko Care and Natural History

[…]with large males reaching 12 inches.  Clad in brilliant green and bearing maroon to red head and orange dorsal markings, Giant Day Geckos must be seen to be truly appreciated.  Hobbyists have also developed an array of breath-taking color morphs.   Captive Gecko Behavior All day geckos are best considered […]

Madagascar Hissing Cockroach Allergy: Popular Pet Insect Hosts Troublesome Mold

[…]new discoveries is an African cockroach that resembles and behaves like a grasshopper.   The Orange-Spotted Guyana Roach (Blaptica dubia) has much to recommend it as both a food animal and terrarium subject.  Please see the article linked below to read more about its natural history and care.    Further […]
Read more » Madagascar Hissing Cockroach Allergy: Popular Pet Insect Hosts Troublesome Mold

Cold Weather Tips for Reptile, Amphibian & Invertebrate Owners

[…](or hot summers), you may wish to tailor your collection accordingly.  For example, axolotls, spotted and slimy salamanders, wood frogs and many other temperate zone amphibians are quite content at 55 F (fire salamanders that I attempted to chill down remained active at 40 F), but many do poorly when […]
Read more » Cold Weather Tips for Reptile, Amphibian & Invertebrate Owners

What Do Leopard Geckos Eat? – An Ideal Diet Based on Zoo Research

[…]part of your pet’s diet, you should also include as many of the following as possible:   Orange-Spotted and other Roaches Sow or Potato Bugs (terrestrial crustaceans) Flightless Houseflies Butter Worms (moth caterpillars from Chile) Calci or Phoenix Worms (Black Soldier Fly larvae) Silkworms Tomato Hornworms Small Locusts (not sold […]
Read more » What Do Leopard Geckos Eat? – An Ideal Diet Based on Zoo Research

New Reptile and Amphibian Species in 2013

[…]of the male is marked with brilliant yellow or white blotches, and the throat is bright reddish-orange or golden in color. The tiny, aptly-named Thimble Frog, Allobates amissibilis, is found only on central Guyana’s Wokrama Mountains.  Planned tourist facilities may threaten its future survival. Urban Lizards California’s legless lizard diversity […]

Captive Care of Latin American Ratsnakes – The Tiger Ratsnake

[…]color and pattern, but whether lemon-yellow with indigo-blue blotches or solid black speckled with orange, they are always stunning. Natural History The Tiger Ratsnake may be found from southern Mexico through Central America and across much of South America to northern Argentina. It also occupies Trinidad and Tobago. Five subspecies […]
Read more » Captive Care of Latin American Ratsnakes – The Tiger Ratsnake

The Best Live Foods for Pet Salamanders – Ensuring Dietary Variety

[…]wings and legs are indigestible; use the smallest acceptable size (please see article below). Orange-Spotted Roaches (Blaptica dubia) This insect’s soft exoskeleton suits it well as a salamander food.  By setting up a breeding colony, you can assure a steady supply of suitably-sized roaches for both small and large salamanders.  […]
Read more » The Best Live Foods for Pet Salamanders – Ensuring Dietary Variety

Tokay Gecko Care, Feeding and Terrarium Design

[…]Some years ago a pet store in Manhattan began renting them to customers as a form of “natural” roach control.  However, their habit of vocalizing in the wee hours of the morning doomed the scheme to failure. Nocturnal and highly arboreal, Tokay Geckos are stoutly built.  Males may reach 12-14 […]
Read more » Tokay Gecko Care, Feeding and Terrarium Design

The Best Small Turtle Pets for Reptile Enthusiasts with Limited Space

[…]find a smaller, more attractive and personable turtle pet! At an adult size of 3.5 – 4.5 inches, Spotted Turtles rank among the world’s smallest Chelonians.  They become as tame and confiding as any Slider, and will do fine on the Musk Turtle diet described earlier.  Some individuals will also […]
Read more » The Best Small Turtle Pets for Reptile Enthusiasts with Limited Space

Chameleon Care Tips from a Herpetologist – Panther Chameleons as Pets

[…]Some can change to pure yellow or burnt-orange, and the eye turrets may flash green, orange, red and other colors. Range The eastern and northwestern coasts of Madagascar; Reunion and other nearby islands. Habitat In contrast to most chameleons, Panthers thrive in a variety of habitats, with some populations dwelling […]
Read more » Chameleon Care Tips from a Herpetologist – Panther Chameleons as Pets

Mazuri High Calcium Cricket Diet and Other Foods for Feeder Crickets

[…]additional nutrients.  I also offered this product (mixed with tropical fish flakes) to hissing roaches, earthworms, sow bugs, field crickets and earwigs, and was pleased to see that each consumed it with gusto. Other Cricket Diets and Water Sources House Crickets require a water source, but unlike many related species, […]
Read more » Mazuri High Calcium Cricket Diet and Other Foods for Feeder Crickets

Emerald Tree Boas in the Wild – Applying Natural History to Pet Care

[…]offers camouflage among flowering bushes and sunlit foliage.  The juvenile coloration of reddish orange or various shades of brown becomes green-flecked by age 4 months.  Highly arboreal, Emerald Tree Boas rarely descend to the ground. Diet Emerald Tree Boas are nocturnal ambush predators, relying upon sight and sensory pits (labial […]
Read more » Emerald Tree Boas in the Wild – Applying Natural History to Pet Care

Amphibians as Pets – Common Frogs, Toads and Salamanders of the USA

[…]especially for growing youngsters.  Many will accept canned insects from feeding tongs. Spotted Salamander, Ambystoma maculatum This large, boldly-marked salamander spends most of its life below-ground in woodlands, but is often seen when migrating to breeding ponds in early spring. A 10 gallon aquarium stocked with damp sphagnum moss, a […]
Read more » Amphibians as Pets – Common Frogs, Toads and Salamanders of the USA

Geckos in the Terrarium – Feeding Day Geckos

[…]The information can be applied to most species, including Standing’s, Gold Dust, Giant, Spotted, Lined and Peacock Day Geckos.  However, details will vary.  Please post below for information on individual species. Natural History Madagascar is the center of Day Gecko diversity, but several species inhabit the Andaman, Comoros, and Round […]
Read more » Geckos in the Terrarium – Feeding Day Geckos

Giant Snapping Turtles – Size Records from a Survey of 84,000 Turtles

[…]in the incidental capture of rare and endangered species such as Wood, Bog, Blanding’s and Spotted Turtles. In the mid 1990’s, I spearheaded a project that sought to document mercury levels in Florida Soft-shell Turtles offered for sale in NYC food markets.  Dangerous levels were found, but red tape and […]
Read more » Giant Snapping Turtles – Size Records from a Survey of 84,000 Turtles

Day Gecko Care – Terrarium Set Up and the Best Supplies

[…]have climbing opportunities.  “High-style” aquariums make fine homes.  A pair or trio of Spotted, Yellow-Throated or other small species can be kept in a 15-20 gallon aquarium.  A 30-55 gallon tank will accommodate the same number of Standing’s, Madagascar or Giant Day Geckos.  Always opt for the largest terrarium possible. […]
Read more » Day Gecko Care – Terrarium Set Up and the Best Supplies

How to Care for American Wood Turtles (with Notes on Natural History)

[…]intelligent of all turtles.  Add to this a beautifully-sculpted carapace and brick-red to bright orange/yellow skin, and it becomes easy to understand their popularity among turtle enthusiasts.  The following information will enable you to meet their unique needs…please post any questions you may have, and be sure to share your […]
Read more » How to Care for American Wood Turtles (with Notes on Natural History)

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

[…]look, however, herpetologists realized that the colorful creature was an undescribed species. The Orange-Flanked Rainbow Skink, C. rubigo, was first collected in the arid scrub and open woodlands of eastern-central Queensland. The Whitsunday Rainbow Skink, C. inconnera, is limited in range to 4 small offshore islands. Formerly considered to be […]
Read more » 2012’s New Reptile and Amphibian Species – Snakes, Frogs and Lizards, Which is Your Favorite?

2012’s New Species – Spiders, Roaches, Millipedes, Wasps – Which is your Favorite?

[…]was first described from a single specimen collected over 70 years ago.  Glowing patches on the roach’s body lead predators to confuse with a toxic click beetle. While several roaches gain protection by mimicking noxious beetles (i.e. the popularly-kept Domino Roach) no others, and indeed no other terrestrial animals, do so […]
Read more » 2012’s New Species – Spiders, Roaches, Millipedes, Wasps – Which is your Favorite?

Round Island Boa Reintroduction – Back in Wild after a 150-Year Absence

[…]1975 and is presumed extinct. The Round Island Boa is oviparous, and changes in color from bright orange to grayish-brown as it matures.  There are some indications that females remain with their eggs for a time.  Unique scalation lends the alternative common name of Keel-scaled Boa.  Juveniles and some adults […]
Read more » Round Island Boa Reintroduction – Back in Wild after a 150-Year Absence

Reptiles, Amphibians, Tarantulas among “World’s 100 Rarest Species”

[…]in keeping these amazing animals when they first appeared in the USA.  Brilliantly clad in black, orange and white, Luristan Newts were an immediate hit among private hobbyists, and captive breeding followed. But they face severe threats in the wild. Native to only 3 streams in Iran, dams, introduced fish, […]
Read more » Reptiles, Amphibians, Tarantulas among “World’s 100 Rarest Species”

Halloween Creatures – Orange Crabs, Ghost Frogs, Vampires, Goblins…

[…]a parrot-eating bat and the well-named Goblin Shark. Halloween Crab, Gecarcinus quadratus Bright orange color and brilliant “eye-spots” on a round carapace lend this crab a pumpkin-like appearance.  Highly terrestrial, it lives along forest edges from Mexico to southern South America, returning to the sea only to reproduce.  Studies have […]
Read more » Halloween Creatures – Orange Crabs, Ghost Frogs, Vampires, Goblins…

American Box Turtles as Pets – Care and Natural History

[…]purchase only captive-bred animals. Natural History Four Box Turtle species – the Eastern, Spotted, Ornate and Coahuilan – range from southern Canada through most of the USA and into Mexico.  Ten uniquely-colored subspecies, including the Florida, Gulf Coast and Yucatan Box Turtles, are also recognized. Box Turtles frequent woodlands, marshes, […]
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Green Anaconda Relatives – Bolivian, Dark-Spotted and Yellow Anacondas

[…](E. notaeus) regularly appears in zoos and the pet trade, but field studies are lacking. Dark-Spotted or De Schauensee’s Anaconda, Eunectes deschauenseei Although described as a distinct species back in 1936, the habits of the Dark-Spotted Anaconda remain unstudied, and it rarely appears in public collections.  While working with Green […]
Read more » Green Anaconda Relatives – Bolivian, Dark-Spotted and Yellow Anacondas

Reptile and Amphibian Conservation in the USA – 2012 Update

[…]see above).  Among these are many unique endemics, including the Arizona Treefrog, Colorado Spotted Frog, Black Warrior Mudpuppy and Austin Blind Salamander. Please see this article for further information. Tiger Salamander larvae are still used (live!) as fishing bait in some states. In addition to decimating populations, the bait trade has […]
Read more » Reptile and Amphibian Conservation in the USA – 2012 Update

Crickets and Carotenoids – Study Examines Cricket Nutrient Levels

[…]than other species. Like the other popular crickets, it breeds year-round when kept warm. The Two-Spotted or Mediterranean Field Cricket, Gryllus bimaculatus, resembles G. veletis and some other American Field Crickets, but is larger and “meatier” (please see photo). However, it is equipped with powerful mandibles, so caution is warranted. […]
Read more » Crickets and Carotenoids – Study Examines Cricket Nutrient Levels

Rosy Boa and Sand Boa Captive Care and Natural History

[…]Three subspecies are known. Many are blue-gray and attractively marked with 3 stripes of pinkish-orange or reddish brown, but natural variations are seemingly endless.  Several individuals that I encountered while studying insects in Baja California, Mexico stand out as being among the most beautiful snakes I’ve seen.  A number of […]
Read more » Rosy Boa and Sand Boa Captive Care and Natural History

Pet-Safe Cricket and Roach Control for Reptile and Amphibian Owners

[…]simple technique, I’ve rid quite sizable exhibits, holding rooms and basements of established roach and cricket populations. Glue Traps Molasses can also be used to lure roaches and crickets onto glue traps, but most remain alive for some time. Killing the trapped insects, as I preferred to do when glue […]
Read more » Pet-Safe Cricket and Roach Control for Reptile and Amphibian Owners

Snake Hunting with Romulus Whitaker – Learning from the Master

[…]a dry spell in mid-July, was the discovery of Dusky, Red-Backed and Slimy Salamanders, and Eastern Spotted Newts. A number of interesting spiders rounded out the day. (Note: all animals were released). Wonderful Encounters, Near and Far I’m rarely superstitious, but I believe that the man was truly charmed! It […]
Read more » Snake Hunting with Romulus Whitaker – Learning from the Master

Live Food Care – Reptile, Amphibian, Tarantula and Scorpion Diets

[…]needed.  Due to a high fat content (58%) and thick exoskeleton, they are best used sparingly. Orange-Spotted Roaches (Blaptica dubia) This insect has a soft exoskeleton and rarely flies.  They can be housed in bare-bottomed aquariums or sweater boxes stocked with egg crate or paper towel rolls.  Fine “insect screening” […]
Read more » Live Food Care – Reptile, Amphibian, Tarantula and Scorpion Diets

Spotted Salamanders Adapt to Salt and other Roadside Toxins

[…]skins, amphibians are especially sensitive to changes in water quality.  The recent finding that Spotted Salamanders (Ambystoma maculatum) may be evolving defenses against roadside toxins is a rare light at the end of the rather dismal “amphibian conservation” tunnel. “Salt Water” Salamanders Yale University researchers report (Science Papers, January, 2012) […]
Read more » Spotted Salamanders Adapt to Salt and other Roadside Toxins

Amphibian Medicine – Cold “Resurrects” Hellbender and Sick Frogs

[…]On Long Island, NY, Eastern Tiger Salamanders may migrate to breeding ponds in February, and Spotted and Alpine Salamanders will cross snow for the same purpose.  Wood Frogs occur within the Arctic Circle, and I’ve found Gray Tree Frogs hibernating beneath a mere 2” of leaf litter in NYC.  Several […]
Read more » Amphibian Medicine – Cold “Resurrects” Hellbender and Sick Frogs

Cricket Care and Breeding – Keeping Your Live Food Alive

[…]option is to use fruits and vegetables, which also provide valuable nutrients, as a water source. Oranges are particularly good in this regard. If orange pieces dry out quickly, try cutting several “entry holes” into an intact orange to slow the drying process. Daily Care and Maintenance Daily chores include checking […]
Read more » Cricket Care and Breeding – Keeping Your Live Food Alive

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

[…]where they range from southern New Jersey to Florida and Texas.  Background colors may be red, orange, yellow or gray, and most are marked with red, brown or gray blotches.  Hybridization with related species and subspecies occurs where ranges overlap. Corn Snakes frequent forest edges, overgrown fields and farms, and […]
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The Natural History and Captive Care of the Green and Black Poison Frog

[…]surface is brilliant green on a black background, and the stomach is mottled with yellow, blue or orange.  There are, however, at least 25 different color phases, with background colors ranging from nearly white to blue-green.  Pattern varies greatly as well, and may be in the form of wide or […]
Read more » The Natural History and Captive Care of the Green and Black Poison Frog

Lizard Societies – Great Desert Skink Families Build Communal Homes

[…]much like the familiar Blue-Tongued Skink (please see photo) and sports rust to burnt-orange coloration that closely matches the red sands in which it lives; its Aboriginal name, Mulyamiji, means “red nose”.  The diet is comprised largely of beetles, spiders and other invertebrates, with termites being an important food source […]
Read more » Lizard Societies – Great Desert Skink Families Build Communal Homes

New Cockroach, Discovered at a Tourist Resort, Jumps Like a Grasshopper

[…]was used to study human mobility.     Further Reading Leaproach Photos and Information Keeping Orange-Spotted Roaches Table Mountain National Park Bush Cockroach image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by Cyron Ray Macey Green leaf Cockroach image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by […]
Read more » New Cockroach, Discovered at a Tourist Resort, Jumps Like a Grasshopper

The Best Filters for Red-Eared Sliders and other Aquatic Turtles

[…]should be used, so be sure to research these topics before making your selection.  For example, Spotted Turtles will be stressed by fast currents, Soft-shelled Turtles will kick sand about and dislodge intake tubes, the carapaces of Pig-Nosed Turtles are prone to bacterial attack in highly-oxygenated waters, and so on.  […]
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The Best Diet for Captive Newts and Mexican Axolotls

[…]all those that one might encounter.  The following feeding recommendations can applied to Eastern Spotted, Ribbed, Japanese Fire-Bellied, Alpine, Paddle-Tailed, Crested and Marbled Newts, as well as to Mexican Axolotls.  With a bit of fine-tuning, other species can be accommodated as well…please write in if you need further information. Basic […]
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The Natural History and Captive Care of the Pickerel Frog

[…]in color and is marked with parallel rows of “almost square” black spots; a bright yellow or orange patch is present on the inner thighs.  Pickerel frogs grow to a length of 2-3.5 inches and are slender in build. Range Found throughout much of eastern North America, from Nova Scotia […]
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Multicolored Rainbow Toad, “Missing” since 1924, is Found in Borneo

[…]one of the 10 species granted highest priority (the Ten Most Wanted) had turned up – Ecuador’s Spotted Stubfoot Toad, Atelopus balios.  However, a 3-month-long search of the Gung Penrisser Mountains in Sarawak, western Borneo, revealed that the Rainbow Toad is still with us. Finding a Long-Lost Amphibian Prominent herpetologist […]
Read more » Multicolored Rainbow Toad, “Missing” since 1924, is Found in Borneo

Chameleon Diets – The Best Foods for Pet Chameleons

[…]following articles to learn about the proper care of feeder insects: Cricket Care Mealworm Care Roach Care When wild-caught insects are unavailable, the main portion of the diet should not be crickets, but rather a mix of roaches, crickets, butterworms, super mealworms and waxworms.  Caterpillars such as silkworms and tomato […]
Read more » Chameleon Diets – The Best Foods for Pet Chameleons

Leopard Geckos in the Wild – the Natural History of a Popular Pet

[…]movable eyelids.  The genus name means “true eyelid” while the species name translates as “spotted”.  In all other geckos, the eyelids are fused into an immobile, transparent cap known as the spectacle.  As in snakes, the eyes thus remain permanently open. Also unique is the Leopard Gecko’s lack of adhesive […]
Read more » Leopard Geckos in the Wild – the Natural History of a Popular Pet

Recent Field Research – Reptile and Amphibian Feeding Observations

[…]murinus, in Venezuela.  Other notable Anaconda meals include a Red-Footed Tortoise and a Yellow-Spotted Side-Necked Turtle (please see article below for details and other observations).  However, when viewed in terms of predator vs. prey mass, the Hog-nosed Snake meals mentioned above are the largest I know of. Aquatic Surprises Most […]
Read more » Recent Field Research – Reptile and Amphibian Feeding Observations

Frog Reproduction Made Simple – Breeding Fire-Bellied Toads

[…]for instructions on creating a simple rain chamber. Yellow-Bellied Toads sometimes exhibit an orange or red stomach; such individuals are difficult to distinguish from European Fire-Bellied Toads.  Check the fingers on the front limbs – those of the European Fire Belly have tiny webs; the Yellow-Bellied Toad’s fingers are not […]
Read more » Frog Reproduction Made Simple – Breeding Fire-Bellied Toads

2010’s Amphibian Discoveries – New Species and New Information – Part 2

[…](Canada) biologists shocked the herp world by announcing that they had found living algae within Spotted Salamander cells, functioning as it does in the egg mass.  This is the closest known association between a vertebrate and a plant, mimicking in some ways the relationship between algae and coral. This discovery […]
Read more » 2010’s Amphibian Discoveries – New Species and New Information – Part 2

Paradise and Ornate Flying Snakes – New Research and Notes on Captive Care

[…]exhibiting rich and complicated patterns and hues of blue, green, black and, in some, red and orange. Captive Care Flying Snakes are rear-fanged and produce mild venom.  The venom affects only the animals upon which they feed, and is not considered dangerous to people, but care should be exercised by […]
Read more » Paradise and Ornate Flying Snakes – New Research and Notes on Captive Care

Tales of Giant Centipedes – Bat-Stalkers, Escapees and Words of Caution – Part 2

[…]and other hefty prey items, but captives fare well on a diet comprised of earthworms, crickets, roaches and other invertebrates.    In properly-designed displays under night-simulating lighting, centipedes are fascinating to observe, but they are not well-suited to private collections (please see below). Centipedes in the Pet Trade I do […]
Read more » Tales of Giant Centipedes – Bat-Stalkers, Escapees and Words of Caution – Part 2

Inexpensive Homes for American Toads and Their Relatives

[…]Great Plains and Green Toads.  With a bit of modification, your set-up will also accommodate Red-Spotted, Colorado River and Marine Toads, and others with slightly different needs.  I’ll also mention money-saving alternatives to certain products, along with non-essential “extras” that can be added if you wish. Enclosure Toads spend their […]
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Assassin Bugs – Captive Care and a Spider-Hunting Assassin – Part 2

[…]insect screening over their terrariums to prevent escapes. Environment and Breeding Red and White-Spotted Assassins can be kept in large colonies.  They seem to prefer other insects to one-another as food…cannibalism is not a concern as long as they are well-fed and sprayed frequently with water.  Both are rainforest inhabitants, […]
Read more » Assassin Bugs – Captive Care and a Spider-Hunting Assassin – Part 2

Assassin Bugs – Captive Care and Notes on Spider-Hunting Assassins – Part 1

[…]in Captivity West Africa’s White-Spotted Assassin Bug (Platymeris biguttatus) and the Red-Spotted Assassin (P. rhadamanthus) of East Africa are the species most commonly offered for sale in the USA.  I’ll cover their care in Part 2 of this article. A number of North America’s many native species make fascinating terrarium subjects […]
Read more » Assassin Bugs – Captive Care and Notes on Spider-Hunting Assassins – Part 1

The Eastern Newt – the Many Subspecies and Hybrids of a Popular Pet – Part 2

[…]It occupies a small range that extends from southern Georgia to northern Florida. The Black-Spotted Newt (Notopthalmus meridionalis), also a distinct species, has large black spots in place of the Eastern Newt’s red ones.  It occurs from south Texas into Mexico and is limited to the moist areas around ponds […]
Read more » The Eastern Newt – the Many Subspecies and Hybrids of a Popular Pet – Part 2

Frog Diets – Nutritious Foods for Popularly-Kept Frogs and Toads – Part 1

[…]relying upon wild caught invertebrates during the warmer months and saving crickets, waxworms and roaches for winter use.  However, even the occasional beetle or moth plucked from a window screen will go a long way in ensuring your pet’s good health. Collecting insects is actually quite interesting and a great […]
Read more » Frog Diets – Nutritious Foods for Popularly-Kept Frogs and Toads – Part 1

The Eastern Newt – the Many Subspecies and Hybrids of a Poplar Pet – Part 1

[…]pass through a 1 to 3 year-long terrestrial stage, during which time they are known as Efts.  The orange or red Efts (please see photo) consume tiny crickets, blackworms, sow bugs, chopped earthworms, and whatever tiny invertebrates might be collected, but will not usually accept dry foods. Related Species, Subspecies […]
Read more » The Eastern Newt – the Many Subspecies and Hybrids of a Poplar Pet – Part 1

Conservationists Seek Public’s Help in Finding 100 Missing Amphibians

[…]of Congo and Rwanda, it has remained undetected since 1950. Rio Pescado Stubfoot Toad This black-spotted, orange toad appears to have been killed off by Chytrid fungus infection, an emerging disease responsible for numerous extinctions.  It disappeared in 1995. Turkestanian Salamander This salamander is known from only 2 specimens, collected […]
Read more » Conservationists Seek Public’s Help in Finding 100 Missing Amphibians

A Snake Breeder’s Delight – the African House Snake

[…]have a pair of white stripes on the head, but the body itself may be solid in color, striped or spotted. As you can imagine, breeders have great fun creating new colors and patterns, and a wide array are now available.  Anyone looking for experience in color morph creation need […]
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The Natural History and Captive Care of the Asian Flying Frog (Golden Treefrog)

[…]with shades of red, yellow or orange, while some specimens are nearly black.  The skin may be spotted, striped or plain in pattern – great fun breeding these fellows, as you never know what to expect in terms of the offspring’s appearances! Range Golden Treefrogs are extremely widespread throughout south […]
Read more » The Natural History and Captive Care of the Asian Flying Frog (Golden Treefrog)

Rare But Unprotected – Red Tape Pushes 12 US Amphibians Towards Extinction

[…]known to be in need of protection are as follows: Frogs and Toads Arizona Treefrog, Colorado Spotted Frog, Oregon Spotted Frog, Mountain Yellow-Legged Frog, Yosemite Toad, Relict Leopard Frog Salamanders Black Warrior Mudpuppy, Austin Blind Salamander, Jollyville Plateau Salamander, Salado Salamander, Ozark Hellbender, Georgetown Salamander Further Reading You can learn […]
Read more » Rare But Unprotected – Red Tape Pushes 12 US Amphibians Towards Extinction

The Painted Turtle – Notes on Captive Care and Natural History

[…]in other countries certainly hold it in high esteem.  Unlike most turtles, the brilliant red, orange and yellow highlights do not fade with age – some of mine even appeared to intensify as time when on! I consider the Painted Turtle a much better choice as a pet than the […]
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The Dwarf Chameleons – Notes on Captive Care and Natural History

[…]their value in improving your pets’ quality of life. Caterpillars, Snowy Tree crickets, Orange-spotted Roaches, Field Crickets Termites, Grasshoppers, Katydids, Sow Bugs and a wide variety of other invertebrates will also be consumed with great enthusiasm.  Houseflies are, in my opinion, vital when rearing young Dwarf Chameleons. Be sure to […]
Read more » The Dwarf Chameleons – Notes on Captive Care and Natural History

Introducing the Nosy Be Gecko (or Spearpoint Leaf-Tailed Gecko) – Part 2

Please see Part 1 of this article for information on an interesting newcomer to the pet trade, the Nosy Be Gecko (Uroplatus ebenaui).  Today we’ll take a look at some related species and the gecko family in general. Other Geckos in the Genus Uroplatus All 12 species that have been […]
Read more » Introducing the Nosy Be Gecko (or Spearpoint Leaf-Tailed Gecko) – Part 2

Live Bloodworms – An Important Food for Small Amphibians and Their Larvae

[…](Hymenochirus spp.), small African Clawed Frogs (Xenopus spp.), young Surinam Toads and Eastern Spotted and similarly-sized newts.  When placed in a small dish with a tiny bit of water, they are sometimes taken by Marbled, Red-Backed and other terrestrial salamanders. Freeze dried and frozen Bloodworms offer a convenient means of […]
Read more » Live Bloodworms – An Important Food for Small Amphibians and Their Larvae

Introducing the Nosy Be Gecko (aka Spearpoint Leaf-tailed Gecko), Part 1

[…]at some of \this lizard’s interesting relatives. Description The Nosy Be Gecko is tan, gray, orange-brown or dark brown in color, with a reticulating dark pattern, skin projections and a short, pointed tail; the over-all appearance is remarkably similar to that of a decaying leaf. At 2-4 inches in length, […]
Read more » Introducing the Nosy Be Gecko (aka Spearpoint Leaf-tailed Gecko), Part 1

The Red-Eyed Treefrog – Notes on Captive Care and Natural History

[…]under my care have accepted include “non-hairy” caterpillars, snowy tree crickets, tiny orange-spotted roaches, potato and other small beetles, field crickets and termites.  Houseflies are, in my opinion, nearly indispensible in the husbandry of these and other small treefrogs (please see article below). As regards crickets, use only ¼ to […]
Read more » The Red-Eyed Treefrog – Notes on Captive Care and Natural History

Breeding the Green Basilisk and Related Species – Part 2

[…]these are an ideal food source for both young and adult individuals.  Soft-bodied roaches (i.e. Orange-Spotted Roaches) and silkworms 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, […]
Read more » Breeding the Green Basilisk and Related Species – Part 2

The Keeled Box Turtle – a Hardy Species in Need of Captive Breeding – Part 2

[…]of 82F.  The carapace of the hatchlings, attractively marked in dark brown with a bright orange rim, is 1.4-1.6 inches long. Diet Keeled Box Turtles are reported to feed upon plants and fruits in the wild, but, judging from observations of captive animals, they likely consume carrion, insects, snails and […]
Read more » The Keeled Box Turtle – a Hardy Species in Need of Captive Breeding – Part 2

Rough and Smooth Green Snakes – Beautiful Insect-Eaters for Planted Terrariums – Part 2

[…]with potentially dangerous species. Other commercially available insects that can be tried include roach nymphs, waxworms, newly-molted (white) mealworms and super mealworms, butter worms and silkworms.  Canned silkworms may also offered via feeding tongs, but many Green Snakes are reluctant to feed in this manner. Green Snakes have high metabolisms […]
Read more » Rough and Smooth Green Snakes – Beautiful Insect-Eaters for Planted Terrariums – Part 2
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