Reptile Basics: Heat and Light

Reptiles are ectothermic — that means cold-blooded! Cold-blooded doesn’t mean that reptiles like cold weather. It means that reptiles rely on external temperature to regulate body temperature. If you’ve ever seen reptiles in the wild, you may have seen them sunning themselves on a rock for warmth, then moving into the shade to cool off. You need to provide your pet reptile with a temperature gradient in their living space. This will allow the reptile (be it a snake, lizard, or turtle) to choose the appropriate temperature. Temperatures that are too high can overheat your reptile; temperatures that are too … Continue reading

Reptile Basics

Before you make a decision about adding a reptile to your family, be sure you know whether or not reptiles are allowed where you live! Many areas have laws pertaining to dangerous reptiles, including constricting snakes and venomous snakes. Pick a captive bred reptile whenever possible. Wild reptiles that have been tamed are not as used to human handling as captive bred reptiles are. At the pet store or breeder, be sure you pick out a healthy reptile. Look for a reptile with clear, alert eyes and no visible sores or lesions. Make sure your reptile seems to be generally … Continue reading