Popular Species

Adding a new reptile or amphibian is exciting, but may be overwhelming for new pet owners. It is important that families do enough research to ensure they are properly prepared for their new arrival.

Listed below are some of the most popular species of pet reptiles and amphibians, as well as important information to know about them.

White's Tree Frog

The white's tree frog is the perfect frog for a beginning pet owner. It measures at three to four inches long, with the females normally being larger than the males. This species of frog normally live anywhere from 10 to 15 years. They are normally fairly easy to maintain and show be kept in an enclosure that is around 20 gallons. The temperature of the enclosure should be about 70 to 85 degrees. The white's tree frogs normally have a diet of moths, crickets, and waxworms.

The Corn Snake

The corn snake is very easy to maintain. This is mostly due to the calm aura it has. There are a variety of morphs available for the corn snake species, which makes it one of the most popular options for a pet snake. The adult corn snake reaches around 72 inches of length and often lives up to 20 years. The corn snake only requires a simple cage that has minimal furnishing. A hotspot that ranges from 85 to 90 degrees should be put into the cage. The snake can eat mice that are relative to its size.

Leopard Gecko

The Leopard Gecko species is also great for beginner pet owners. They are small and easy to hold. The gecko can be bought in a variety of different patterns and colors. This lizard lives an average of 15 to 20 years. The females typically grow to be about 7 to 8 inches long, and the males grow anywhere from 8 to 10 inches long. A 10-gallon cage can be used for the lizard. UVB lights are not necessary because the lizards are a nocturnal animal. The warm side of their enclosure should be able to heat up to 90 degrees. This species of lizard will normally eat cockroaches, worms, and crickets.

Red-footed Tortoise

The red-footed tortoise is a bit more advanced to care for. These tortoises are often known as some of the most beautiful tortoises, and they are typically smaller than others. The lifespan of this tortoise is about 50 years. There are several different morphs of the tortoise. The enclosure can be supplied with dense type grasses. The tortoise likes to eat dense grass, and it also provides a source of shade. The tortoise should be fed a variety of vegetables every day. Tortoise owners typically give their tortoises collard greens, kale, dandelion greens, bok choy, alfalfa, and endive. About two or three times a week the tortoise may also enjoy fruits like strawberries, oranges, pears, and bananas.

California Kingsnake

The California Kingsnake is another snake that is great for the beginning pet owner. It is easy to maintain and also have a calm demeanor. This snake easily feeds on rodents and does not grow to be very big. The average adult normally grows to 3 or 4 feet long. The typical California kingsnake may live for up to 20 years. There are a lot of morphs that are available.