What is the Best Pet Reptile for Beginners?

If you are interested in getting a reptile as a pet, it is a good idea to do your research before making a decision. Luckily, we have put together some information for you to help you choose which exotic pet you should buy, especially if it’s your first time owning a reptile.

Good Pet Lizards

Unfortunately, the lizards that are usually sold in pet stores are iguanas which are not the best choice when it comes to your first reptilian pet. However, here are some other lizards which would be better suited to beginners:

Leopard Geckos

Pros

• Leopard geckos are relatively small and docile, with a low risk of aggression, so they are easy to handle.
• You only need bulbs to bring the tank to the optimal temperature for leopard geckos which is between 28-32°C.

Cons 

• Leopard geckos are carnivores so if you do not like handling live insects, then you will not enjoy feeding them crickets, roaches or worms.

Crested Geckos

Pros 

• Crested geckos are also relatively small and docile, with a low risk of aggression, so they are easy to handle.
• They also require insects in their diet, but they are considered as omnivores so also eat fruits, nectar and pollen.

Cons

• Crested geckos require high humidity in the tank, around 65-85%, so tank misting is necessary on a daily basis.

Bearded Dragons

Pros

• If you purchase bearded dragons when they are at least 6 months old, they would’ve already agreed with their diet which makes it easier for you.
• They have a distinct personality which is charming and friendly; they aren’t overly affectionate, but they will communicate with you.

Cons

• Bearded dragons new more specialist equipment, like UVA and UVB bulbs and heating technology, as they require higher ambient temperatures.
• They will also require a larger tank as they can grow up to 24 inches long.

Easy-to-Handle Snakes

Snakes are also an easy option for a first reptilian pet as they don’t all have specific temperature requirements and only need to be fed at least once a week. Here are some species you should consider:

Corn Snakes

Pros

• Corn snakes only grow up to 5 feet long and are quite docile creatures which makes them easy to handle.
• They only require feeding every 5-14 days, depending on their age, which makes them quite simple to take care of.

Cons

• If you do not like handling rodents, then corn snakes will not be the right choice for you as they live on a diet of mice, preferably frozen pinky mice and mouse fluffs.
• You will need to buy a large enough tank for them with added security as they can be very good at escaping.

Ball Pythons

Pros

• Even though they are slightly bigger than a corn snake, they still only grow up to 5 feet.
• They are incredibly low maintenance and if you want your first pet to live for up to 30 years, a ball python is the best choice for you.

Cons

• Just like corn snakes, if you do not like handling rats or mice, then ball pythons are not for you as their diet also consists of rodents.
• If you are looking for a pet that shows affection, ball pythons are the wrong choice.

This is a basic guide to the best species you should choose, but still ask the shop owner for more information. Frozen food is the best choice for reptilian pets as live prey can harm your reptile, it is cheaper and there is better disease control. For your frozen food requirements, turn to Kiezebrink.