Calcium is an essential mineral for all animals, including reptiles. It is needed for a variety of bodily functions, including: Building and maintaining strong bones and teeth Regulating blood clotting Transmitting nerve impulses Contracting muscles Secreting hormones Reptiles need more calcium than mammals, as they do not produce as much of their own. A calcium deficiency can lead to a number of health problems, including: Rickets: A softening of the bones that can lead to deformities Osteoporosis: A thinning of the bones that makes them more brittle and prone to fractures Metabolic bone ..read more

Viviparity is a type of reproduction in which the young are born alive, rather than hatching from eggs. This is the most common type of reproduction in mammals, but it is also found in some reptiles. There are about 20% of all reptile species that are viviparous. These species include snakes, lizards, and skinks. Viviparity is more common in snakes than in other reptiles, and it is also more common in cold climates. There are several advantages to viviparity. One advantage is that it allows the young to develop in a more protected environment. The mother's body provides warmth and nourishment ..read more

Reptiles are ectotherms, which means that they cannot regulate their own body temperature. They rely on external sources of heat, such as the sun, to warm up and cool down. This makes thermoregulation a critical process for reptiles, as their body temperature affects their metabolism, activity level, and ability to survive. There are three main methods that reptiles use to control their body temperature: Basking. This is the most common way for reptiles to warm up. They will position themselves in the sun so that their bodies can absorb the heat. Convective cooling. This is how reptiles cool ..read more

Care Guide for Eastern Collared Lizard Eastern Collared Lizards, also known as the Crotaphytus collaris, are beautiful reptiles native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. These lizards require specific conditions and care to thrive in captivity. Here is a detailed care guide to ensure your Eastern Collared Lizard remains happy and healthy: 1. Housing: - The ideal enclosure for an adult Eastern Collared Lizard should be at least 4ft in length, ideally 4ft x 2ft x 2ft. - Provide a mix of substrates, such as sand, Beardie Life, Leo Life or Biolofe Desert, ensuring it is deep e ..read more

Stick insects are fascinating creatures that are relatively easy to care for, making them a great choice for first-time pet owners. They are also very low-maintenance, so they can be a good fit for busy people or those who live in small spaces. There are many different species of stick insects, so you can find one that is the perfect size and color for you. Some popular species include the giant walking stick, the Indian stick insect, and the ghost stick insect. Stick insects are herbivores, so their diet consists of leaves, flowers, and fruits. You can purchase special stick insect food at m ..read more

Care Guide for Jumping Spiders Keeping Jumping Spiders as pets can be a fascinating and rewarding experience. These tiny arachnids are known for their incredible jumping abilities and unique hunting techniques. Here is a care guide to help you provide a suitable environment and ensure the well-being of your Jumping Spiders: 1. Terrarium Setup: - A small, well-ventilated enclosure is suitable for Jumping Spiders. A tall glass terrarium or a clear plastic container with a mesh lid will work well. - Provide a vertical habitat by adding twigs, branches, or leafy plants. Jumping Spiders love to cli ..read more

Care Guide for Axolotls Axolotls are unique and fascinating creatures that can grow up to 30cm in length. These aquatic salamanders are known for their ability to regenerate body parts, including their limbs and even their spinal cord. To ensure that your axolotl remains healthy and happy, here is a care guide to follow: 1. Tank Setup: - Provide a spacious tank that can hold at least 90 litres of water per axolotl. - Axolotls need a cool environment with a water temperature between 60-68°F (15-20°C). - Use a suitable water filter to maintain water quality. Axolotls are sensitive to high levels ..read more

Spekes hingeback tortoises are a fascinating species of tortoise that are native to parts of East Africa. These tortoises derive their name from the unique hinge-like structure on the back of their shells that allows them to retract and protect their vulnerable limbs when threatened. Physical Characteristics Spekes hingeback tortoises have a unique appearance that distinguishes them from other tortoise species. They have a high-domed shell that is brownish in color and heavily ridged. Their shells are also equipped with a hinged section near the back, which is used to protect vulnerable areas ..read more

HAINAN CAVE GECKO (CHINESE CAVE GECKO) Goniurosaurus hainanensis INTRODUCTION The Hainan Cave Gecko originates from Hainan Island which is located off the southernmost point of China. In the wild it can be found inhabiting burrows in rocky scrubland type areas and as their name suggests, caves. These geckos are strictly nocturnal by nature. They are usually black with yellow bands, however, at night they 'fire up' and the black on their body (on their head and between each yellow band) goes purple with black spots. Another striking feature of this gecko is their stunning deep red eyes. In the ..read more

LEOPARD GECKO Eublepharis macularius Quick facts Longevity: 15-20 years Temperature Gradient: 68-90f (20-32c) Humidity: 30-40% (a humid hide should be always available) Dietary: Insectivorous Disposition: Do not usually mind handling Cleaning: Spot clean daily, full clean every 4-6 weeks (unless living in an established bioactive enclosure) INTRODUCTION The leopard gecko originates from Iran, South Eastern Afghanistan, Pakistan and South eastern India, where it can be found inhabiting rocky, arid grassland and semi-desert areas. Leopard geckos are crepuscular, meaning that they are usually ac ..read more