How to choose the first reptile to adopt?

The care of these specimens is more specific than those of the most common pets; however, there are species whose maintenance is easier than that of others

How to choose the first reptile to adopt?

Despite what many people may think, most reptiles are creatures fit to become pets. While they are not as common pets as dogs or cats, there are those who choose them to have at home.

Keep in mind that all reptiles, from lizards to snakes, require certain special care. Therefore, it is important to know some of its characteristics, and take into consideration certain elements, before choosing the first reptile to adopt.

What to know before taking a reptile home?

All reptiles need basic care and attention to be able to keep them at home properly. Caring for a reptile can be more difficult than caring for mammals that, in some ways, look more like us.

There are some species of reptiles that are easier to care for than others, and this should be taken into account when choosing the first reptile. Some are simple to maintain and coexist, ideal for beginners. But there are others who require more experience and advanced knowledge from their caregivers.

Another important factor to consider is the physical elements that will be needed to keep the reptile of your choice in captivity. Depending on the species, the investment for its housing and survival can be more or less expensive.

Space, food and more factors

In addition to having the basic elements and enough space, to maintain a healthy and happy reptile often requires several additional elements. A plastic box or a terrarium is not enough; lighting or heating systems may also be required.

Food can also represent a major expense. It is not the same to have as a pet a reptile that eats leaves or plants, than one that feeds on live animals.

If there are children at home, we must also consider that the first reptile they have nearby will attract a lot of attention, so they will want to touch and hug it.

In any case, when choosing the first reptile to adopt, it is highly recommended to go to a specialized store. It is important that the seller really understands about the subject, and devotes time to the buyer to help him make the best decision.

As we have seen, the choice will depend on many factors such as the age of the caregiver, the space available, the budget and the time you want to dedicate to it.

What are the most recommended species for beginners?

Geckos

The most recommended reptile for beginners is the gecko. These are small lizards, very docile and easy to care for. There are different sizes, but most measure only a few centimeters.

The gecko or gecko does not need much space, feeds on insects and does not require much care; a simple terrarium and a little water will suffice.

The iguana

The most popular and commercialized reptile is the green iguana. Although they can be very attractive, it is necessary to know that these iguanas are young animals that will increase a lot in size. Although at the time of buying them they measure between 20 and 50 centimeters, over time they can measure about two meters.

To have an iguana at home, it is necessary to adapt a terrarium that is high enough to place a trunk that the reptile can climb; temperature and humidity must be controlled.

Iguanas eat insects, fruits, vegetables and leaves; when they are young they eat more than when they are adults, and it is necessary to feed them three times a week.

If the iguana experiences a color change, or its skin loses its shine, it may be a sign of a health problem; in that case it will be necessary to go to a veterinarian.

Chameleons and turtles

The chameleon is also a favorite as the first reptile to adopt, and its care is similar to that of the iguana. However, they are animals that are very stressed; if you want to have a reptile that you can touch a lot or hold in your arms, the chameleon is definitely not the most suitable. If what you are looking for is a turtle, you have to know that there are different types, each with different needs in terms of care. Florida turtles are the cheapest and very easy to care for.

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