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Termoregulation in Amphibians and Reptiles
Humidity Control
Bearded Dragon
Bearded dragons are lizards of medium size that have good temperament and are easy to tame. They are very sociable and interact with each other. They also socialize and interact with humans. Fully-gronw adults vary in length (18 to 24 inches) and are relatively easy to breed. as a result of these features their popularity as pets is rapidly increasing.
Boa Constrictor
While you may think of your boa as a pet, it is essentially a wild animal and it has all instincts and needs of wild animals. Although of all the reptiles kept and bred in captivity boas seem to be the most popular, it would be wrong to look upon these animals as affectionate pets.
Chameleon
Despite the frequency with which chameleons appear on the marketplace, as captives these solitary lizards require a dedicated regimen of daily care tailored to a prticular species. Factors such as available humidity, cage temperature, and cage ventilation are all of paramount importance. Although some chameleons are egg-layers, some are live_bearers.
Green Lizard (Lacerta viridis)This lizard species should be kept in a desert vivarium. Males should not be kept together. The species is quite hardy. They are best kept in groups.
Iguana
Despite the fact that iguanas are virtually always available in the pet trade, green iguanas have very specific care requirements. It is very difficult to restore good health in a sick lizard, so you must keep your igiana in tip-top condition at all times.
Turtles and Tortoises
Tortoises have been kept as pets for hundreds of years. Massive raids on wild species brought many of the them to the brink of extinction. Many die in captivity due to poor conditions and lack of knowledge about their needs. Certain species of tortoises are included in the Convention on the International Trade of Endangered Species (CITES) lists the species that are threatened with exticntion in their natural habitat. Tortoises make excellent pets. Different species need specific housing and feeding requirements.
Environmental & Nutritional Diseases
The great majority of diseases affecting captive reptiles and amphibians are caused by incorrect husbandry. The next most common problem is that of incorrect or inadequate nutrition. This is more likely to affect some species than others, especially where dietary requirements are unusual or poorly known.
Reptile Organizations
Reptile organizations and herpetological societies are dedicated to sharing education and
experiences with herpers, cultivating an appreciation of reptiles, amphibians, and all natural life through of husbandry, conservation and education. They also may provide photos, legislation, and want ads.
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