My Top 10 Favourite Reptiles

There are so many wonderful reptiles throughout the world and I have been lucky to be able to see lots of different reptiles in person. In today's post, I am going to try and list my top 10 favourite reptiles and a few reasons why I have chosen them for my list.

1. Ball Python/Royal Python (Python Regius)

I have selected ball pythons because I have 9 of them in my small collection of reptiles. I love the fact that they come in a variety of paint jobs and the genetics behind them is extremely interesting. They are also quite easy to care for and have such a lovely nature, they would never strike out at a person for no good reason. They are furthermore impressive without growing overly large.

2. Leopard Geckos (Eublepharis macularius)

I have selected Leopard Geckos as they make wonderful pets and are one of the easiest lizards to care for and similar to ball pythons they come in amazing colours and patterns. They usually have a docile nature and are simple to handle although they can drop their tail, so they do have to be handled gently. If they do drop their tail it will regenerate but not look the same as before.

3. Crested Gecko (Rhacodactylus ciliatus)

I just love crested geckos and hope to own one soon. They are very photogenic and come in some beautiful morphs that don't break the bank. They are inquisitive and love to jump; don't be surprised if one jumped from your shoulder to your head in an instant!!! Similar to a leopard gecko, they can drop their tail if spooked and sadly they are unable to regenerate it.

4. Burmese Python (Python bivittatus)

I have selected Burmese pythons due to the fact that they are in general less feisty than other large constrictors. Burmese pythons are not for everyone as they need a large space to roam and are large snakes with a heavy body. To keep one I would advise doing lots of research and only recommend them for a responsible adult with experience. Although they are a large constrictor they in NO way deserve the negative reputation bestowed upon them by the media. I have handled a few Burmese pythons and find them to be timid. Any incidents that occur are usually down to owners' negligence.

5. Rhino Iguana (Cyclura cornuta)

Rhino Iguanas are stunning and not commonly kept in the pet trade. They are a large and impressive lizard that can live for up to 80 years in captivity. They are omnivores who like a bit of protein in their diets. They are for advanced keepers as some can have a bit of an attitude! They are quite prehistoric in appearance and look like a mini dinosaur! 

6. Diamondback Rattlesnake (Crotalus atrox)

 

I don't know why but I have a fascination with rattlesnakes. Every time I hear the sound of one rattling it gives me goosebumps! They are an adept hunter that uses hemotoxic venom to incapacitate their prey. They look visually stunning and come in a variety of morphs. They should never be kept in captivity by an inexperienced keeper as a bite from one could ruin your life. Depending on where you live you may need a permit or license to keep one in captivity.

 

 

7. Hog Island Boa (Boa Constrictor Imperator)

I love hog island boas due to their docile attitude and the fact they do not reach large lengths, typically 5-6 foot. I have found them to be inquisitive but not aggressive despite some negative reputation. They are visually striking and have bright tails! They also bare live young.

8. American Alligator (Alligator mississippiensis)

American Alligators are fairly large and could be considered quite dangerous. They live in semi aquatic environments. When in captivity they are not for the faint hearted. They average between 6-9ft with males being larger than females. They are carnivorous and feed on a variety of meats.

9. King Cobra (Ophiophagus hannah)

King Cobras are the peacock of the snake world, they are visually stunning and make an impressive display animal. Similar to the rattlesnake, king cobras use a venom which unlike the rattlesnake is neurotoxic to incapacitate their prey. Like all venomous reptiles they are not to be taken light heartily in the pet trade as a bite from one can be fatal. 

10. Chameleons (Chamaeleonidae)

Chameleons are visually beautiful and can lighten and darken their colour depending on their mood and environment. They have independent eyes, which allows them to have a better view of their surroundings. They also have a tongue that is 1.5 to 2X the length of their body. They are perfect for experienced keepers as they need a high humidity and can be feisty.