Criptic's Page on Herps

This page was written as a living piece of work, it will be updated often, and may include readers contributions. It's intentions is to provide as much information on the care of animals, and herps in particular, as possible. To navigate this site please use the menu bar up above. And, to email me at any time click the red-eye tree frog in the lower right hand corner.

Before Buying

Not considering these will eventually result in disappointment and failure to not only help your pet thrive in captivity, but also the loss of your investment in your pet. Most first-time buyers buy on impulse, resulting in the eventual death of an animal that has barely hung on for days, weeks, or even months. This results in the new pet owner being discouraged, never owning another herp for a pet, and losing an enjoyable link with the worlds nature.

Who is the pet for?

Are you buying them for children or for you? With the exception of larger, easy to handle species, herps are not recommended for children unless parents can provide close supervision. Parents must be responsible for maintenance and care. However, herps are highly recommended for responsible adolescents.

Is the animal to be handled?

There are only a few species of reptiles that can deal with being handled on a regular basis. The majority of reptiles will get stressed over being handled excessively. Stress in reptiles is similar to stress in fish, it will kill them. Look into the details about the reptile you are thinking about buying if your intent on handling them. All reptiles will do well as display animals similar to tropical fish.

Is feeding going to be difficult?

A few species require specialized dietary needs. Make sure you are able to provide this if you are considering acquiring one of these animals. Also, please remember that more then likely you will have to make at least a trip to the pet store once a week for crickets or rodents(unless you purchase a herbivore). Some areas may have shortages or only seasonally available supplies of food items. Please consider this before you purchase your new pet.

Which sex is the better pet?

Generally speaking, males make the better single pet. Females when kept singly do not have the opportunity to breed. Even if the female does not breed she will still need to lay eggs. If the female has not been breed she will have an increased chance of becoming egg bound. It is best if you can buy a breeding pair, or breeding trio if at all possible.

What kind of housing?

Please remember that you must provide your new pet with adequate housing. This can exceed the cost of your pet. You must be willing to accept this cost up front, if not prior to you purchasing the herp.

Should I buy now.... ... or wait?

I can not stress this enough, DO NOT purchase an animal without doing thorough research on the care of that animal. Make sure you understand the implications as well as any special requirements of the animal of your choice. If you must have that particular pet, ask if you can put a payment down on your herp while you set up it's home and do the research. Also, please remember, most pet stores will allow you to special order herps. You can always find or get that reptile again. It is better to pass up on buying a herp because of being unsure of care, then purchasing a herp and losing it because of lack of understanding about it's care.

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