Reptiles are some of the most fascinating creatures in the animal kingdom and many people have considered having them as pets. Although there are a variety of reptiles to choose from, not all of them make suitable pets. To help you find the perfect reptile companion for your home, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 reptiles to keep as pets. Whether you’re looking for a low maintenance pet or something with more of an exotic feel, this list has got you covered. Read on to find out which reptiles make great pets and why.
1) Leopard Gecko
The leopard gecko is a great reptile for beginner pet owners. They’re small and have a docile temperament, and can live up to 10 years or more with proper care. They are also relatively easy to maintain and require very little in terms of enclosure set-up or specialized equipment. Leopard geckos come in a variety of color morphs, making them visually appealing pets.
2) Bearded Dragon
A popular choice for reptile owners, bearded dragons are friendly, docile lizards that make great pets. They require a larger enclosure than some other reptiles and can grow up to 24 inches in length. With proper care, bearded dragons can live up to 10 years. They require UVB lighting, a balanced diet of insects and vegetables, and a variety of temperatures throughout the day to stay healthy.
3) Blue Tongue Skink
This friendly and inquisitive reptile makes an excellent pet. These omnivores enjoy a diet of vegetables, fruits, insects, and small animals. They can live up to 20 years in captivity and make great pets for intermediate reptile keepers. These skinks can reach up to 18 inches in length and require a large tank or terrarium, with a heating element and lots of branches and plants for climbing. They can also be quite social and love interacting with their human owners.
4) Red Foot Tortoise
This medium-sized tortoise is a popular pet due to its ease of care. Red Foot Tortoises are herbivores, and they require a diet consisting mostly of leafy greens. They need an environment that is moist, warm, and humid. Red Foot Tortoises also require an enclosure with plenty of space to move around, as well as hiding spots for them to relax.
5) Corn Snake
Non-venomous and easy to care for, corn snakes make excellent pets. They come in a variety of colors and sizes, and they are known for their docile temperaments. They do not require much space and can live happily in an appropriately sized enclosure. They eat a variety of small rodents and can live up to 15 years with proper care.
6) Ball Python
Ball pythons are one of the most popular pet reptiles in the world due to their docile nature and attractive appearance. They are easy to care for, and make great pets for both beginners and experienced reptile keepers. Ball pythons reach a maximum length of around five feet and can live up to 30 years with proper care.
7) Leopard Tortoise
This beautiful tortoise has a unique shell pattern resembling the spots of a leopard. It can make a great pet, as it’s easy to care for and doesn’t require too much space. It requires a lot of heat and direct sunlight, but will otherwise be content in a large enclosure with plenty of hiding places. With proper care, they can live up to 50 years.
8) Crested Gecko
Crested Geckos are a popular pet reptile, often kept for their unique appearance. They are easy to care for and do not require much space, making them an ideal beginner reptile pet. Crested Geckos are nocturnal and thrive in a warm and humid environment, so you’ll need to provide them with a terrarium with a temperature and humidity level that matches their natural habitat. With proper care, a Crested Gecko can live up to 15 years!
9) Gargoyle Gecko
The Gargoyle Gecko is a large, hardy gecko with a powerful bite. They are a popular choice for reptile owners due to their docile nature and ease of care. With the right setup, they can live up to 15 years. They need high humidity and temperatures between 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit. They also require ample hiding spots in their enclosure.
10) Solomon Island Ground Boa
A Solomon Island Ground Boa is a non-venomous constrictor that is native to the Solomon Islands. They are usually a light brown or yellow color with small markings, and can reach lengths of up to 6 feet long. This boa is a great beginner snake for those interested in keeping reptiles as pets due to its docile nature and manageable size.