Best reptile pets for Beginners

5 Worst Beginner Reptiles

Some reptiles just should not be kept by beginners- or even experienced reptile hobbyists! These reptiles are terrifyingly common, so be sure to avoid them!

All too often someone buys a red eared slider for their kid because he want’s a turtle, or a green iguana because they look cool and they think they’ll only grow to the size of the enclosure, but this always end in tragedy. There are reptile rescues full to the brim with all of these animals on the list because they are either difficult to care for or terribly involved animals that nobody wants once they become inconvenient. It’s a horrible problem and I hope this article will discourage you to purchase these animals unless you are a sincerely dedicated person.

Do not trust a single source for information, and unfortunately most pet stores cannot be trusted, especially those that don’t deal strictly with reptiles. Always do hours of research, books, web sites, forums, speaking with reptile hobbyists. All of this is a must before buying a reptile. Even then, when sources talk about reptiles, even more difficult species, they speak as if their care is easy. And for experienced or even intermediate hobbyists they are! But definitely not for beginners. Essentially, these articles are written without a reference point and the writers often forget that just the concept of UVB light is lost on people who’ve never had any reptile experience! And no amount of reading can truly prepare you for handling a 6’ hormonal Iguana who wants you out of it’s territory, but has to be relocated into a larger enclosure.

These reptiles require a huge commitment and a special type of person to devote the amount of time, money, and knowledge that they require.

For a list of the 5 BEST reptiles, go here:

TOP 5 WORST BEGINNER REPTILES

1. Turtles and Tortoises of Any Kind

Turtles and tortoises, in general, grow very large and require all manner of lighting. Messing this up their care will result in a deformed and diseased animal!

• Cost of reptile Turtle- $10 Tortoise $30
• Enclosure Turtle- $630 Tortoise… a whole backyard+ fence.
• Filtration (turtle) $150
• Decor $60
• Lighting $68-$200
• Food/Supplements Turtle- $25 monthly Tortoise- $40 monthly