Herp Nutrition

If you are trying to decide on what animal to get as a pet, you might consider lizards, snakes or turtles. There are great benefits to each species but each one requires different habitats and care. Be sure you research the choices you are considering, so you may make an informed decision.

Lizards as Pets

Lizards are very popular as pets, due to their exotic looks. Some lizards, such as the green iguana, can grow up to five or six feet long and will require an extensive enclosure, usually within your house. If you are considering buying a lizard as a pet for the first time, consider lizards like a bearded dragon or a gecko. Most of these lizards will not grow too large, and it will be easier to handle and maintain a healthy environment.

Lizards usually do not require any special feeding, as most need diets consisting of greens and an occasional piece of fruit. Be sure to research your lizard’s dietary needs, though before jumping in to feed it. Lizards will also require a heating source, mister, and climbing space, which can add to the price of care for lizards.

Snakes as Pets

Snakes are also a common pet, and require much the same type of care as lizards. Snakes require an enclosure from which they cannot escape, unless you become an expert at finding them in your house. Most snakes will require a heating source, climbing area and a water source. Some of the better snakes for a beginning snake owner are king snakes, ball pythons, and corn snakes. The ball python has been known to live for up to forty years. Many of the boa constrictors and Burmese pythons will grow quite large, and they will require multiple people to handle correctly. These snakes should only be cared for by experienced snake owners. Venomous and wild snakes should be avoided by all.

All snakes should be able eat pre-killed food. Ask the pet store or breeder to let you observe a feeding of pre-killed food. Live food can hurt your snake if they are not hungry or just uninterested.

Turtles as Pets

Turtles are also a common pet for children. The most common varieties available are the box turtles and the mud turtles. Turtles are often bought or caught for pets, and then are neglected. Turtles will require much care and attention, just as any other pet.

Turtles can be fed by feeding sticks, but also need to fulfill the need to hunt. Feeding your turtle a live fish once a week can be fun to watch as the turtle dives to catch it. Turtles should have an adequate space, water area, and heating source, so they can be as comfortable as possible. Many turtles live over twenty years and can be a household pet that provides memories for all.

When choosing your pet, whether you want lizards, snakes, or turtles, consider the care and attention needed for each. Whichever pet you choose, with time and diligence, each can become a pet for your family for a long time.