Reptile keeper FAQ

Quick fire Reptile Keeper FAQ, SAR style #

1. What is the best reptile for beginners?
Leopard geckos, corn snakes, bearded dragons and crested geckos are among the most recommended reptiles for beginners. They’re hardy, eat readily, and don’t need overly complicated setups, but a good level of knowledge is required for any pet.
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2. Do reptiles need heat lamps at night?
Most reptiles need a temperature drop at night to mimic natural conditions. If your house stays above the temperatures of 16–21°C at night, extra heat isn’t needed. Use a ceramic heat emitter (no light) if higher evening temperatures are required.
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3. Do reptiles need UVB light to survive?
Yes — most reptiles and amphibians (especially lizards and tortoises) need UVB light to make vitamin D3 and absorb calcium. Snakes generally don’t need UVB to survive but do benefit from it.
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4. How long do pet reptiles live?
It varies widely:
• Leopard gecko: 15–30 years
• Bearded dragon: 10–15 years
• Royal python: 20–30 years
• Tortoises: 50–100+ years
• Crested gecko: 15-30 years
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5. What do reptiles eat as pets?
Depends on species:
• Carnivores (snakes, monitor lizards): rodents, chicks, fish, insects
• Insectivores (geckos, chameleons): crickets, locusts, roaches, worms
• Herbivores (tortoises, iguanas): leafy greens, vegetables
• Omnivores (bearded dragons, skinks): insects, leafy greens + vegetables
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6. Why isn’t my reptile eating?
Common reasons: stress, incorrect temperatures, shedding, illness, or seasonal changes (like brumation). Always check husbandry first. 9/10 issues with feeding are husbandry related.
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7. How often should I feed my reptile?
• Baby reptiles: daily or every other day
• Adults: 2–3 times a week (insectivores/omnivores), every 1–2 weeks (snakes)
• Tortoises: small daily meals of leafy greens and vegetables
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8. What’s the easiest reptile to take care of?
Crested geckos and corn snakes — low maintenance, easy feeding, and hardy.
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9. Why is my reptile hiding all the time?
It’s usually normal — reptiles feel safe in hides. If excessive, check temperature, lighting, or stress factors.
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10. Can reptiles recognize their owners?
Reptiles don’t bond like dogs or cats, but they can recognize patterns, scents, and associate you with food and safety.
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11. How do I know if my reptile is sick?
Signs: lethargy, rapid weight loss, refusal to eat, wheezing, sunken eyes, bubbles from nose (in some species), abnormal droppings, or soft shell (in tortoises). See a reptile vet if unsure.
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12. How big of a tank does my reptile need?
Rule of thumb:
For snakes, enclosure length = at least the snake’s full body length.
For lizards, enclosure length = at least double the lizards full body length.
Bigger is always better.
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13. How often should I clean my reptile’s tank?
Spot clean daily (remove waste, uneaten food). Full clean with substrate change every 4–6 weeks.
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14. Do reptiles carry salmonella?
Yes, many reptiles naturally carry salmonella. Wash hands after handling and avoid kissing the animal or eating around them.
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15. Do tortoises need to hibernate?
Some species (e.g. Hermann’s, Greek tortoises) can indeed brumate (the correct term). Others (e.g. Leopard, Sulcata, Horsefield’s) do not. Research your species.
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16. Why is my gecko not eating mealworms?
Could be boredom, shedding, stress, or preference. Try other feeders like crickets, locust or dubia roaches.
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17. Do ball pythons bite?
Ball or royal pythons are generally very docile. They may strike if stressed, hungry, or mishandled — but serious bites are rare.
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18. Is it legal to own reptiles in the UK?
Yes, but some species require special licenses under CITES. Common pets (leopard geckos, corn snakes, bearded dragons) are legal without permits.
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19. Should I buy captive-bred or wild-caught reptiles?
Always choose captive-bred — they’re healthier, parasite-free, and don’t contribute to wildlife decline.
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20. What supplements do reptiles need (calcium, vitamin D3)?
Most insectivores and herbivores need calcium powder on every feed and a multivitamin once or twice weekly.

Reptile Running Costs Comparison (UK, 2025)
Species Electricity (per year) Food (per year) Other (substrate, bulbs, supplements) Vet Fund Total Annual Cost Cost per Day
Crested Gecko £15 – £40 £60 – £200 £40 – £80 £50–100 £165 – £420 ~45p – £1.15
Royal Python £100 – £190 £100 – £200 £80 – £170 £50–100 £330 – £660 ~90p – £1.80
Tortoise £120 – £250 £50 – £200 £65 – £125 £50–100 £285 – £675 ~80p – £1.80
Bearded Dragon £145 – £260 £200 – £400 £70 – £130 £50–100 £465 – £890 ~£1.30 – £2.45

Do you have something we should add to our reptile keeper FAQ? Contact us and a member of our friendly reptile team will happily answer all of your questions.

Why not check out our YouTube channel for some cool videos on our reptiles and helpful tips on husbandry!