significantly the further an animal moves away from
the light source, so for taller enclosures it is
important that an animal is able to bask close to the
UVB globe or tube, in order for it to be effective.
“Turtles are so cute - can I take
mine out and play with it?”
Many people are drawn to hatchling turtles because
of their small size and cute appearance. Despite
their permanent smile, turtles, particularly hatch-
lings, do not enjoy being handled or being taken out
of water for extended periods. Turtles feel most
vulnerable and threatened when out of water and
regularly handling a hatchling turtle can cause
significant stress for the animal. So turtles should be
considered as more of an ‘observational’ reptile. It is
also important to remember that turtles do not stay
small for very long and can live for 50 years or even
longer. They are also a relatively high maintenance
pet reptile, as a turtle tank requires a lot more
upkeep than a lizard or snake enclosure.
“My bearded dragon looks lonely;
does he need a friend?”
Bearded dragons, like many other reptiles, are
solitary creatures and it is widely accepted amongst
keepers that in captivity it is best to house them
individually. Bearded dragons do not get lonely, and
in fact they are actually much happier when housed
on their own. Keeping more than one bearded
dragon in an enclosure together is dangerous and in
many instances leads to dominance and aggression
issues.
Kellyville
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Ad.
We see many cases of bearded dragons that are
housed together that are the same age but vastly
different in size. In more extreme cases bearded
dragons will fight and can seriously injure each
other. Larger bearded dragons will also not hesitate
to cannibalise and eat smaller specimens. When
keeping reptiles, it is important not to project our
human emotions and perspectives on to the
animals; rather, put yourself inside their head and
think like a reptile! (See Ben’s article in Issue 4 of
iHerp Australia for a detailed overview of the
dangers of reptile cohabitation).
This article outlines just a few of the more common
questions that we get asked on a regular basis at
Kellyville Pets. More frequently asked questions
(and myth busting!) will be included in the next
issue. If you have a question that you would like to
be included or have received conflicting advice on
something, feel free to write to me through iHerp
Australia or at Kellyville Pets.
Image by Michael Cermak.