Picking the Reptile that is Right for You
The
first decision to make is whether you want a snake, lizard,
tortoise, or turtle. Once that decision has been made you can start
to research individual species. For example if you have
decided you would like a lizard, you may consider species such as
bearded dragons, leopard geckos, iguanas, etc. When
considering each species, you should ask several questions.
- When is this species most active?
Some reptiles are only active during
the day (diurnal) and some only active at night (nocturnal). If you
want to interact with your pet during the day, a nocturnal species
would not be a good choice. However if you are only home in the
evenings, a nocturnal species may be the right choice for you.
- What does this species eat and how often do you need to
feed it?
Nearly all snakes will need to be
feed a diet of rodents. The variables will be what size and how
often.
With lizards there are 3 major
diets: insectivores, carnivores, and herbivores. Insectivores eat
primarily insects (crickets, waxworms, etc.) Carnivores typically
eat small rodents, much like snakes. Herbivores eat a diet of
greens, vegetables, and fruits.
Turtles and tortoises also have 3
major diet groups: herbivores, carnivores, or omnivores. Most
tortoises are herbivores thus eating greens, vegetables, fruits,
and sometimes hay. Aquatic turtles are usually carnivores that eat
worms, crickets, and small fish. Semi-aquatic turtles are
typically omnivores meaning they eat a combination of herbivorous
and carnivorous foods.
Many species of lizards, turtles,
and tortoises will also need vitamin and calcium
supplementation.
- How big will this species be when it becomes an adult,
how long will it live, and what will I need for it to live
in?
The adult size should be a very
important consideration when choosing a reptile no matter how small
and cute the babies. Many reptiles stay under a foot in total
length, however some get much larger. For example an adult iguana
can reach up to 6 feet in length and some species of boa
constrictors can reach over 10 feet in length.
Adult size is very important not
only in whether or not you will be able to handle the animal, but
also in what type of cage you will have to purchase. An adult
iguana will require a cage ~6 feet tall x 6 feet wide x 3 feet
deep.
Longevity in captivity is primarily
associated with the care given to the reptile. 50 - 90% of reptiles
die in the first year of captivity due to owner inexperience.
However if properly cared for many reptiles may live 10 - 20 years
in captivity.
- Last but certainly not least. Who will be the
primary care giver and will you be able to afford the
reptile?
Parents should consider that the
amount of care a reptile needs to thrive in captivity may be more
than most children can provide. While the child may have certain
responsibilities caring for the reptile, an adult should be
supervising the overall care.
Financial responsibility is also a
major commitment. The actual reptile is usually a small fraction of
the overall cost. Make sure to consider the purchase price of the
reptile, cage, furniture, feeding dishes, lighting, food, and
veterinary care.
Once you have decided that you are ready for the commitment of
caring for a reptile and have chosen a species that fits with your
lifestyle, you will need to pick out a healthy new pet. There
are many sources of reptiles including pet stores, breeders, and
reptile expos. Choose a source that is reputable and willing
to provide support after you purchase your reptile. Look for a
healthy reptile. Signs of a healthy reptile include: an
alert attitude, clear eyes, upright posture, a well filled out
belly, no injuries or swellings, and a clean vent.
Caring for Your Reptile
Each species of reptile has specific care requirements. This
handout is does not describe the care of individual species, but
general things to consider for every reptile.
Cage
Size - It is truly important to purchase a cage
large enough for your new pet. This will allow appropriate
exercise, room to thermo regulate (adjust their body temperature),
and minimize stress.
Shape - Choose a cage that is designed with
your pet in mind. For instance, a lizard that spends most of its
time in the trees should have a cage that is taller than it is wide
allowing room to climb. A reptile that spends most of its time on
the ground would benefit more from a cage that is wider than it is
tall allowing room to move around on the floor.
Click
here for more information on Caring for Your Reptile.