Shiny, smooth and beautiful; it is easy to see why king snakes are so popular among reptile enthusiasts. While most make wonderful pets, it is important to understand the basic biology and ecology of king snakes in order to maintain them successfully. Inside, you will find information about the natural history, taxonomy, behavior and captive care of the genus Lampropeltis. Additionally, some of the most popular species and subspecies are covered in depth, providing a broad overview of this incredible group of snakes. All these topics are covered in this book: Anatomy Basic Biology Range and...

It is easy to see why boa constrictors are so popular among reptile enthusiasts; they are bold, beautiful, and often docile. While they often make wonderful pets, it is important to understand the basic biology and ecology of these potentially large snakes before adding one to your family. Inside, you will find information about the natural history, taxonomy, behavior and captive care of boa constrictors. Additionally, some of the most popular subspecies are covered in depth, providing a broad overview of this incredible species. Marvin Murkett is an experienced writer and a true animal...

Green tree pythons are simply amazing animals. Wildly popular among snake enthusiasts, these beautiful animals are truly unique. Starring at one of these emerald green snakes transports the observer to a faraway and unfamiliar place, where these snakes have lived for millions of years - the rainforests of New Guinea and Australia. Green tree pythons have adapted to their rainforest habitat in a variety of fascinating and puzzling ways. They blend seamlessly with the green canopy as adults, yet they start life as bright yellow or red babies. They are incredibly athletic snakes, but they remain...

Monitor lizards are some of the most exciting captives that reptile enthusiasts can keep. They are always the center of attention at zoos and pet stores, where their dinosaur-like form captivates and entertains adults and children alike. While many species are inappropriate pets for all but the most experienced keepers, several of the smaller species make wonderful captives. Nevertheless, even the smallest species require relatively large cages and inordinate amounts of food, so keepers must consider the acquisition of a monitor lizard carefully. For those that choose to add a monitor lizard...

It is easy to see why boa constrictors are so popular among reptile enthusiasts; they are bold, beautiful, and often docile. While they often make wonderful pets, it is important to understand the basic biology and ecology of these potentially large snakes before adding one to your family. Inside, you will find information about the natural history, taxonomy, behavior and captive care of boa constrictors. Additionally, some of the most popular subspecies are covered in depth, providing a broad overview of this incredible species. Marvin Murkett is an experienced writer and a true animal...

Despite their ubiquity in some areas of the natural world, snapping turtles are somewhat rare in captive collections. This is not surprising, given that snapping turtles grow to be quite large and their dispositions often range from irritable to overtly hostile; a momentary lapse in concentration can have disastrous consequences. However, while snapping turtles are wholly inappropriate for beginning turtle keepers and those without the means to provide spacious accommodations, experienced turtle keepers often find that these incredible animals make rewarding pets, and are well worth the...

Most large tortoises are popular with turtle enthusiasts, but sulcatas are undoubtedly the most beloved of all. Given their impressive size, gentle personalities and attractive markings, this should not be surprising.

Unfortunately, many people acquire sulcatas without first learning about their needs, which often leads to frustrated keepers and neglected tortoises. As when caring for any animal as a pet, keepers must learn as much as possible about the biology, behavior and ecology of the species, in order to provide them the highest quality of life possible.

Begin that journey inside,...

Few turtles are better known in North America than the charming and widespread box turtle. While they are frequently seen walking through forests and crossing neighborhood roads after summer showers, they are also among the most popular pet turtle species in the world.

Unfortunately, many people acquire box turtles without first learning about their needs, which often leads to frustrated keepers and rejected reptiles. As when caring for any animal as a pet, keepers must learn as much as possible about the biology, behavior and ecology of the species, in order to provide them the highest...

Given their unique body plans, independently mobile eyes and unthinkably long tongues, it should be no surprise that chameleons are some of the most popular lizards among reptile enthusiasts. Throw in their ability to change colors in spectacular fashion, and these lizards rise to nearly mythological levels. But this unusual biology means that these lizards require rather specific husbandry, and they are generally not suitable for beginners. Nevertheless, those with a bit of lizard keeping experience are likely to find that panther chameleons are well worth the additional effort they require....

Named for the rainbow-like sheen cast by their scales, rainbow boas (Epicrates spp.) are among the most beautiful snakes in the world. In fact, because they are aesthetically appealing, possess calm personalities and remain smaller than many gigantic constrictors, rainbow boas have become some of the most popular snakes in the world. This popularity has led many keepers to breed rainbow boas, thereby making it easy for enthusiasts to work with these snakes. Whereas snake hobbyists in the past only had access to imported, wild-caught individuals, who were irritable and riddled with parasites,...