The Complete Care Guide for Lizards, Frogs, and Reptiles & Amphibians

Reptiles and amphibians are captivating pets — but they're among the most misunderstood and mishoused. Getting their care right takes research and commitment.

Choosing Your Species

• Beginner reptiles: Leopard geckos, bearded dragons, corn snakes, blue-tongued skinks
• Beginner amphibians: Pacman frogs, White's tree frogs, fire-bellied toads
• Intermediate: Crested geckos, ball pythons, axolotls
• Advanced: Chameleons, iguanas, large monitor lizards

Enclosure

• Always research adult size before buying an enclosure
• Ground-dwellers need floor space; climbers need height
• Reptiles need screen tops for airflow; amphibians need humidity retention

Temperature and UVB Lighting

• Every enclosure needs a warm side and cool side for thermoregulation
• UVB lighting is essential for most diurnal reptiles — without it they develop metabolic bone disease
• Amphibians need lower temps (65-78°F) and high humidity
• Use timers for consistent 12-hour light/dark cycles

Feeding

• Insectivores: crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms
• Herbivores: leafy greens, vegetables, hay — no animal protein
• Snakes: frozen/thawed mice or rats — never feed live prey
• Dust insects with calcium and vitamin D3 before feeding

Health

• Metabolic bone disease — prevented with proper UVB and calcium
• Respiratory infections — caused by incorrect temperatures or humidity
• Find a reptile-experienced exotic vet before you need one

At CROPTIRE BARNYARD, great pet care extends to every species. Cold-blooded? Maybe. Worthy of great care? Absolutely. 🦎🐸