Search Results for: blog iguana care light heat and more

Chameleon Care

There are several different species of chameleon that are popular as pets. Veiled chameleons are large — reaching up to two feet in length — but also relatively hardy. Jackson’s chameleons are smaller and have three horns on the head. These lizards do well in lower temperatures. Panther chameleons are also large and exhibit striking colors. Males are much larger than females. Chameleons are solitary and easily stressed. In the wild, they live exclusively in trees — so the habitat you create must provide plenty of branches for climbing and foliage for hiding. The more space you can provide, the … Continue reading →

Chinese Water Dragons

Like their name implies, Chinese water dragons love water. Don’t be surprised to see your Chinese water dragon spending a ton of time in the water! These lizards hail from Southeast Asia — Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, and China. To mimic these warm climates in your lizard habitat, keep the daytime temperature between 83 and 88 degrees Fahrenheit. You should also provide a basking spot at around 90 degrees Fahrenheit so your Chinese water dragons can thermoregulate. Overnight temperature should be between 75 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep the lights and heat on a twelve hour cycle for most of the … Continue reading →

Savannah Monitor

When it comes to monitor lizards, the Savannah monitor is one of the easiest to keep. Keep in mind, though, that the Savannah monitor may not be the best choice for beginners. Monitors are extremely strong lizards and can be difficult to handle — a beginner might be better off with a different breed. The Savannah monitor is considered a mid-sized monitor. When full grown, a Savannah monitor lizard can reach between three and four feet in length. This means you’ll need a good sized enclosure for your Savannah monitor. The cage should be at least five feet long and … Continue reading →

Tank Care For Newts and Salamanders

Salamanders and newts have very porous skin — it makes them very sensitive to changes in environment (just like frogs and other amphibians). If you aren’t careful in your tank care, your pets can become seriously ill or injured. First things first — all tanks need water. Even terrestrial tanks have water trapped in the mossy substrate and/or in shallow pools. Don’t use distilled water to fill your tanks. You can use tap water or rainwater — but either one may need to be treated or left standing to allow chemicals to dissipate. Tap water should be treated with dechlorinating … Continue reading →

White’s Tree Frogs

Want a frog that will be docile and tolerate handling? White’s tree frogs are that and more. Size: Approximately four to five inches long when fully grown. Color: Ranges from green to blue-green to aqua. Skin: These frogs have a waxy coating on their skin that helps them retain moisture. It also allows them to tolerate arid conditions and careful handling. Lifespan: White’s tree frogs are long lived — life spans as long as twenty years have been reported, though fifteen years is more typical. Also known as the dumpy tree frog, White’s tree frogs are native to Australia, Indonesia, … Continue reading →

Iguana Care: Light, Heat, and More

In the wild, reptiles tend to spend a lot of time basking in the sun. Iguanas (and other reptiles) are cold-blooded or ectothermic, meaning they depend on an outside source of heat to regulate body temperature. Why is light important? Sunlight and/or UV lights allow your iguana’s body to create vitamin D — just like sunlight helps a human body produce vitamin D. Natural sun exposure and a basking light will help ensure good health for your green iguana. Not enough D puts your green iguana at higher risk for certain types of metabolic bone disease. Natural sunlight is great, … Continue reading →

A Look At Iguana Health Issues

Like any pet, your iguana should see a veterinarian at least once a year for a general check-up and any vaccinations he may need. Try to choose a veterinarian that specializes in reptile care so your iguana is seen by an expert. Many health issues that require a vet visit are caused by two things: poor care and poor feeding. If your green iguana isn’t being fed the right foods, he’s going to get sick. If his tank doesn’t provide the right light and heat, he’s going to get sick. Make sure your iguana is well cared for at home … 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 →