Chihuahua Mountain Kingsnake

Blog #22 (Chihuahua Mt. Kingsnake)

1. Chihuahua Mt. Kingsnakes

2.Reptiles Magazine Online, May 2014

3. I chose this article because i took a quiz on this snake.

4. I liked that this article kept it really simple. It called this kingsnake a beginner snake and listed it lives in northern mexico hence its name. Then it listed things like its length, scientific name, picture and characteristics. They also listed that they are cannibalistic!

5. I learned that temperature control is very important for this snake. It helps digestion and overall health of this snake. They can live pretty long 12-20 years and use there alarming colors for protection. They mimic another snake to predators, so they don't get eaten. Clever.

6. No questions.

7a. Yes, I would purchase a Chihuahua Mt. because they are pretty and docile.

b. This snake was very hard to find on the market.... I couldn't find any listed prices.
c. The only site i found to purchase on was http://tremendoustricolors.com/2010-tarahumara-mountain-kingsnake/1560/, but no listed prices.
d. Just Albino again
e. Morphs maybe $100 or more
f. --->
g. Not endangered
h. No permit
i. No controversy

8. Care requirements are simple for this snake. Only a safe caged terrarium, pinkies to eat, no necessary lighting, and water bowl.

9. Beginner snake

10. The most interesting thing is there beautiful patterning. 

Red- Yellow Footed Tortoise

Blog #24 (Caring for the Red Footed Tortoise)

1. Keeping And Caring for Red -Yellow Footed Tortoises

2. Reptiles Magazine Online, May 2014

3. I chose this article because their feet were red and they looked miniature.

4. I liked how they described that there is a different footed tortoise besides red, but orange and yellow too. You can tell their different by the scales and of course the color. Yellow foots have scales at the top of their head and on their nose. Red foots have shortened prefrontals and a visible frontal scale. 

5. I learned that this species loves the outdoors and does not hibernate. They do very well in humid environments all around the U.S. These tortoises are recommended to be kept outside in large pens with other tortoises. Also, these tortoises can live in doghouses for shelter during harsh whether or night time sleep.

6. Are these tortoises popular in zoos?

7a. I wouldn't want a red footed tortoise because they need lots of attention and care. I would prefer something smaller. 

b. You can find these for about $120.

c. They can be found at http://www.tortoisesupply.com/ for $120 or at petco.com/ for an unnamed price.

d. No color morphs really besides feet from yellow-red.

e.-

f.-

g. They are not endangered right now, but if habitat destruction keeps up they might be.

h. No permit-

i. No controversy-

8. Care requirements include a nice pen with a good environments, lots of greens, good source of water and when babies they can be kept under a 90 degrees lamp for growth and vitamins. Some can be kept inside in a simple container with coconut chips as a substrate. 

9. This would be an intermediate level animal. They aren't huge, but do require some nurturing care due to that their tortoises. 

10. The most interesting thing is of course, their colored feet and cuteness. They are cuter than the huge african tortoises. A lot like Hyde! 

New Species of Horned Lizard Discovered In Southern Mexico!

Blog #23 (Horned Lizard)

1. New Species of Horned Lizard Discovered In Southern Mexico

2. Reptiles Magazine Online, May 2014

3. I chose this article because it looked like an interesting lizard. 

4. I liked that they included a picture of the new finding and stated that its scales are different than other types of lizards. According to DNA testing from scientists this lizard has rough scales, but are formed differently. There are 16 "horny" lizards and this makes 17. This lizard has a smaller body type, shorter tail and different horns.

5. I learned that the world is still generating new species of animals and that all species are still not uncovered. It's cool to know that there are new animals out there. This lizard in particular are still protected due to only finding a few of them. Hopefully, a new species that stays to the list of horned lizards.

6. Can these lizards be bred in captivity? How soon will they start if breed-able? 

7a-i  n/a because it's a new species! no morphs are found quite yet and aren't on market yet.

8. I would assume care requirements would be similar to a bearded like a terrarium with other horned lizards, sandy environment with a basking log, uv lights and crickets as a diet.

9. Beginner animal i would think.

10. The most interesting thing is the new scales. 

Rosy Boas

Blog #20 (Rosy Boas)

1. Rosy Boa Care Sheet

2. Reptiles Magazine Online, May 2014

3. I chose this article because it showed an Albino Rosy Boa which looked different and cool.

4. I liked that this article listed that this snake is a common household snake. They can be purchased for as little as $25. In general, I quality boa will cost a little more though because it has to be bred correctly. Some kinds include the coastal cali and desert phase rosy boas.

5. I learned that Rosy Boas actually have a very long life expectancy. A columnist had a rosy boa that was bred in the 1950's and lived til' 2011! Typically they will live to 30 years or more. Rosy Boas are also very easy to keep as long as you don't have screening at the top of their enclosure because they are notorious for rubbing their snouts.

6. No questions-

7a, Yes, I would purchase one because they are nice looking and have a good temper.

b. Prices range from $65-$200.

c. You can purchase them at vmsherp.com/ for varied prices and at backwaterreptiles.com/ for $150.

d. There is an albino morph of the Rosy.

e. Morphs are around $150-$200.

f. --->

g. No they are not endangered

h. No permit-

i. No controversy-

8. Care requirements are quite simple for the Rosy. Make sure it has a proper enclosure like a terrarium since they are small, pinkies for feeding, no lighting and water when it needs it.

9. This is a beginner snake.

10. The most interesting thing about Rosy's is there slender body type and beautiful faces. 

Pictus Ground Gecko

Blog #21 (Pictus Ground Geckos)

1. How to care for the Madagascar Ground Gecko

2. Reptiles Magazine Online, May 2014

3. I chose this article because the gecko had an interesting pattern.

4. I liked that this article had a video going with the article. It showed the gecko and how petite it is and it's unique features. They said in the video that they should be kept separate because they like to breed. They also called their back pattern "reticulated".

5. I learned that these geckos only get up to 5 inches and are on the smaller scale. They live a very simple life in a terrarium and tend to be very territorial, so they should be kept separate. They enjoy heat lamps and heat pads to keep warm. Also can be handled, but are fragile so be careful!

6. No Questions-

7a. Yes, I would purchase this kind of gecko because they are simple and cute.

b. You can find them for $60-$175

c. You can purchase them at www.supremegecko.com/ for about $60-$70 and at csmgecko.com for the same prices.

d. No morphs

e. -

f.-

g. Currently not endangered!

h. No permit

i. No controversy

8. There really is not a difficult task for taking care of these geckos. They need a simple terrarium bedded with coconut chips, a small water bowl, enjoy simple uv light to about 70 degrees and maybe a branch or two to chill on. They also enjoy eating crickets and should be kept alone because they are territorial.

9. Beginner animal definitely.

10. The most interesting thing is their big eyes and reticulated skin. 

Green Iguana's

Blog #19 (Green Iguana's)

1. Green Iguana Care Sheet

2. Reptiles Magazine Online, May 2014

3. I chose this article because Iguana's are beautiful creatures and I got the opportunity to see one in the wild over spring break.

4. I liked how the beginning of the article explained how the iguanas look different physically depending on where they come from. Some iguanas are from South America and the other species is from Central America. Southern Iguanas are less cold tolerant and Central iguanas have horns/bumps on their nose ranging from 1/2-1 inch. They also have very different scientific names that they listed.

5. I learned that almost 1 million iguana babies are imported to the U.S. each year. They are a more common pet than everyone thinks. If thinking of purchasing one you should get one from a reptile rescue center. Very few people can actually meet the care requirements for these animals, so make sure you think it thru before purchasing one though.

6. No Questions-

7a. I would possibly want to purchase one. I would enjoy raising babies and selling them rather than having one or a couple of my own. They are huge, but beautiful lizards. 

b. Babies come very cheap around $20 and adults can go for $50-$2,000 depending on size and morph.

c. They can be purchased at backwater for various prices http://www.backwaterreptiles.com/iguanas/green-iguana-for-sale.html & at http://www.reptilesncritters.com/iguanas.php for more expensive prices.

d. Yes, morphs include albinos and blues.

e. Morphs can cost from $2,000-$4,000

f. --->

g. Yes, some species of iguanas are endangered.

h. No permit-

i. There is some controversy with people not being able to meet the care requirements for this animal and then letting them go in the wild where they can't survive or overpopulate. 

8. Care requirements include a aquarium or outside caging so it can roam. Structures are recommended to be built for this animal. They also enjoy UV lighting or just sunlight so they can absorb Vitamin D. As far as food goes they enjoy natural raw foods like greens, beans and fruit.

9. This is an expert level animal!

10. The most interesting thing about the iguana is

definitely their albino morph.

White's Treefrogs

Blog #18 (White's Treefrogs)

1. White's Treefrog Care Sheet

2. Reptiles Magazine Online, May 2014

3. I chose this article because I haven't done a blog on an amphibian yet and these little guys' eyes are huge!

4I love how the author introduced the tree frog. They described them as "smiley", "personable" and "chubby". These tree frogs are actually a very popular pet. Their genus is Litoria which contains 181 frog species in Australia.

5. I learned that White's Treefrogs are about 3-4 inches long and come in green or brown and sometimes jade or turquoise. Their eyes face forward and they have sticky toe pads instead of webs. They love hot enclosures with branches to perch and friends to play with. They also enjoy crickets in their diet and sometimes things like oranges and sweet potatoes to stick on.

6. No Questions-

7a. Yes, I would keep a White's Treefrog as a pet! They are simple and cute. 

b. Prices range around $25-$50.

c. They can be found at backwater reptiles and pet co for similar prices.http://www.backwaterreptiles.com/frogs/blue-whites-tree-frog-for-sale.html & http://www.petco.com/product/118278/Whites-Tree-Frog.aspx.

d. They can come in a jadeish or turquiose color.

e. Morphs are around the same price of $50.

f. --->

g. This species is not endangered.

h. No permit-

i. No controversy-

8. Care requirement include a simple terrarium with hot lighting, a water dish, branches to perch on, maybe some buddies to hang with and crickets to eat.

9. This is a beginner animal! It's just a frog :)

10. The most interesting thing about this animal is still their huge eyes and feet. 

Reticulated Python

Blog #17 (Reticulated Python)

1. Reticulated Python Care Sheet

2. Reptiles Magazine Online, May 2014

3. I chose this article because these snakes are interesting and slender looking.

 4. I liked that the article showed pictures of the beautiful python. The coral sunglow morph really caught my eye compared to the normal reticulated. They are beautiful snakes! Below those they also included the ruby eyed albino morph and super granite crown python. 

5. I learned that reticulated python's are one of the worlds largest snakes. They have been recorded up to 32 ft. long and up to 350 pounds. There is also a dwarf version of the reticulated python getting up to  10 to 12 feet. They live up to average of 15-20 years but have been recorded up to 30 years. 

6. No Questions-

7a. I don't think I would keep a reticulated python because I like how ball's look better.

b. Reticulated's can go from $100-$5,000!

c. You can purchase them at http://www.bobclark.com/available/reticulated_pythons.html for various prices more of on the high side and at http://www.backwaterreptiles.com/pythons/reticulated-python-for-sale.html for $100.

d. Yes, there is a coral, albino and granite morph.

e. Morphs go from $2,000-$5,000

f. --->

g. No they are not endangered.

h. No permit-

i. No controversy- 

8. Care requirements for a reticulated python include a strong enclosure, heat pads and some sort of newspaper substrate. This type of snake also loves to eat so make sure you provide a meal of pinkies each week.

9. I would consider this snake a beginner animal.

10. The most interesting thing to me about this python is still the coral colored one! 

Uromastyx's

Blog #16 (Uromastyx's)

1. Uromastyx Care Sheet

2. Reptiles Magazine Online, May 2014

3. I chose this article because I have never seen or heard of a Uromastyx lizard before. 

4. I liked how the article introduced the Uro. It said that it comes from the same family that bearded and frills come from. There are over 18 species of Uro's around the world. Except, there are a lot of traded Uro's around the world, so if you are interested in purchasing one you should have it checked for disease and parasites. Just overall make sure you get a healthy lizard.

5. I learned that as I read on in this article that we have a Uro in the reptile room, I had just never noticed him before. Uro's can get between 10-18 inches in size and can live up to 15 years old. The oldest recorded exceeded 30 years old! They also enjoy bright hot lights in their environment which helps stimulate feeding and digestion.

6. Why does the Uro in the article look so different in the one we keep in our room? Different morph?

7a. Yes, I would probably purchase a Uro because they are pretty docile and are easy to look after and cute.

b. Uro's range in prices from $80-$230 dollars.

c. Uro's can be purchased at http://www.bigappleherp.com/Mali-Uromastyx for $80 & at http://www.snakesatsunset.com/uromastyx-for-sale/ for varied prices of $55-$130.

d. Uro's come in many morphs like orange, teal, black, and some come with bands. 

e. Morphs are on the higher side around $100-$300.

f. --->

g. Currently, the Uro's are on the extinction list in Egypt where they come from.

h. No permit -

i. No controversy - 

8. Uro's enjoy mixed greens, seeds, blossoms and pellets to snack on. They also enjoy a terrarium with sand and rocks to bask on with light temps of 85-90 degrees. They also can be caged with other Uro's or bearded's. 

9. This is a beginner animal most definitely. 

10. The most interesting thing about the Uro is the interesting morphs and there spiny tail. 

Aldabra Tortoise

Blog #15 (Aldabra Tortoises)

1. Aldabra Tortoise Care Sheet

2. Reptiles Magazine Online, May 2014

3. I chose this article because it's a big tortoise and looks much different than Hyde. 

4. I liked that they listed shocking weights and ages of these tortoises. They get up to 550 pounds, but kept in captivity they can get to about 800! That's a ton of tortoise.. These tortoises are also long living up to more than 200 years old. The oldest recorded in captivity is 170 in a zoo. This species is one of the largest tortoise species in the whole world. 

5. I learned that these tortoises are actually really rewarding pets, but they most likely will outlive you. Better leave someone in your will to take care of your aldabra! These tortoises spend most of their time eating and are herbivores. They are deceptively quick when threatened and when presented with treats they will spring for it. After 2 years old these tortoises should move from tortoise tubs to being kept outside,

6. No Questions-

7a. No, I wouldn't keep this as a pet because of how huge they are and how old they can get. I'm a snake person most definitely. 

b. Between 2,000-3,000 for this kind of tortoise. 

c. They can be purchase at http://www.theturtlesource.com/i.asp?id=225689767 for 3,495 at most and at http://www.tortoisesupply.com/baby-aldabra-tortoise/ for $2,000.

d. No there are no morphs.

e.-

f.-

g. It's conservation status of being endangered is 'vulnerable' for extinction.

h. No permit to purchase- as long as you can house them well. 

i. No controversy- 

8. These tortoises of course require a large outside enclosure after they become about 2 or 3 years old. Make sure to supply them with lots of greens and fruits. They love to eat. Also consider heat pads for your tortoise if you live in a funky environment. 

9. This would be an expert level animal because of their size and age conditions. They are very special animals to live for that long, so you must have someone look after them and keep them in the fam.

10. The most interesting thing about the Aldabra is there size and living! 

Western Hog Nose Snake

Blog #14 (Western Hog Nose)

1. Western Hog Nose Snake Care Sheet

2. Reptiles Magazine Online, May 2014

3. I chose this article because these snakes are a lot different than your normal snake such as a milk or corn. They have a thicker body style and are very cool looking. 

4. I liked how the article described the snake. They said it was very stout, is covered in keel scales and possess a up turned sharp snout. The snake actually uses this unique snake to burrow and dig, which I did not know. Hog Nose's come in many colors like tan, olive, gray or brown with black keel scales.

5. I learned that Hog Nose's are actually well known best for their wide array of harmless defense techniques. Some of these include loud hissing, flatten itself, creating a hood to look bigger and bluffing. Bluffing is famous from the cobra and is impressive in mature animals. Another feature about the Hog Nose is that when it strikes a predator, it does not bite, but hit the animal with its snout. They also love to play dead and musk. Overall, this snake has many techniques of defense and displays them well.

6. Are Hog Noses related to Rattle Snakes through looks and keel scales?

7a. No, I don't think I would purchase a hog nose just because they seem more of a wild snake to me and are too gorgeous to be taken out of their natural habitat. 

b. Marked Prices vary from $150-$2000!

c. You can purchase them at Geckos Etc. for many varied prices http://www.geckosetc.com/ and backwater for cheaper prices around 100. http://www.backwaterreptiles.com/

d. There are many morphs including albino which turns out as a reddish color. 

f. ----> 

g. The eastern hognose is endangered. 

h. No permit-

i. No controversy either-

8. Hognoses don't require a giant cage and can be kept in a shoe box size space or a terrarium. They don't need a whole lot of sunlight, but can be picky eaters and need to have clean water. They eat small mice like all other reptiles-

9. I would consider this snake beginner considering they don't bite and are pretty docile animals. Very cool looking too :)

10. The most interesting thing about the Hog Nose is there defense techniques and keel scales. They play dead and can hood! 

Frilled Lizards

Blog #13 (Frilled Lizards)

1. Frilled Lizard Care Sheet

2. Reptiles Magazine Online, May 2014

3. I chose this article because I know these lizards are popular pets as seen in movies and story books.

4. I liked that this article gave specific information about care for baby and adult frilled lizards. One of their nicknames is also 'Frillies'. They come from New Guinea and Australia. It is the second largest lizard to the Sailfin which i just did a blog on also!

5. I learned that when these lizards are threatened they project a membrane outward and upward as a warning of being large and scary. These lizards can get up to 3 ft long and live up to 10 years old. They enjoy vertical cages and sun lamps to ensure a long happy life. Babies are also very easy to raise and breed. They are easy going, eager animals that are very friendly. 

6. No Questions.

7a. I wouldn't purchase a Frillie because they aren't the cutest lizards...

b. Frillies are currently around $150-$200.

c. They can be purchase at back water reptile for $150 & $450 for special red frilled dragons at Sailfin Dragon. http://www.sailfindragon.com/forsalefrilleds.html & http://www.backwaterreptiles.com/agamas/frilled-dragon-for-sale.html

d. There is a red frillie lizard as for morphs.

e. Morphs are more around $400-500

g. They are on the verge of being endangered in the wild.

h. No permit to keep-

i. No controversy either;

8. Frillies must have a vertical cage so it is free to move and also some props to perch on. They like there lamps at 85-90 degrees and sometimes like to be misted. They eat insects and enjoy D3 supplements to keep a healthy lizard.

9. I would say this is a beginner animal because there's nothing really difficult to a frillie. I wish we had one in the back in reptile room! New investment?

10. The most interesting thing about Frillies is how cage defensive they get and that they are show offs with there extra membranes. 

Philippine Police Arrest Sea Turtle Poachers From China

Blog #12 (Sea Turtle Poachers)

1. Philippine Police Arrest Sea Turtle Poachers From China

2. Reptiles Magazine Online, May 2014

3. I chose this article because I didn't know sea turtles were even in the category of being poached! It's sad that people want them just for their shells when they are such beautiful creatures that live for forever. I'm happy they got arrested though. The remaining turtle carcasses were buried within a area where other endangered animals are buried.

4. I liked that the article had very specific numbers to how many animals were captured and included some crime pictures. Even though poaching is sad, it's an interesting topic. Chinese fisherman searching for something to poach are not uncommon. There are more than 7,000 little islands of the Philippines that these poachers enjoy to poach on to. 

5. I learned that when they found the ship 70 turtles were alive, but nearly 230 turtles were dead and hooked through their eyes to the ship. In total about 16 crew members and fisherman will be arrested for this crime. Sea turtles are an endangered species and the U.S. is very saddened by this trend. The sea turtles are wanted for their huge shells and unique patterns. 

6. I'm still wondering how these fisherman attract the sea turtles and know where to find them? How do they get them out of the water? Do Sea Turtles fight back? They have to be heavy!

7. n/a

8. n/a

9. n/a

10. The most interesting thing about sea turtles is how long they live! 

Albino Kingsnakes Gain Foothold in Canary Islands

Blog #11 (Albino Kingsnakes)

1. Albino Kingsnakes Gain Foothold in Canary Islands

2. Reptile Magazine Online, May 2014

3. I chose this article because we have about 5 albinos in the back and they are nasty things. Always agressive and rather agitated easily.

4. I liked that this article described the problem of Albino Kingsnakes eating everything. I would never think these snakes could take over a place. According to the article it is eating native animals and becoming to populous. It is estimated there is over a thousand albinos per square mile in the Canary Islands now.

5. I learned from this article how animals bred in captivity can take over. If you just let one out, it soon finds another and they multiply. Now the Islands government is trying to find a solution to these creatures. A study in 2012 states that soon these snakes are expected to disappear completely from the island due to natural causes.

6. No questions-

7. -

8.-

9. -

10. The most interesting thing is that they're color is what makes them so agressive. 

Sailfin Dragon's

Blog #10 (Sailfin Dragon)

1. Sailfin Dragon Care Sheet

2. Reptiles Magazine Online, May 2014

3. I chose this reptile because I didn't know there was a lizard with a fin attached to it. 

4. I liked that these animals are different looking than all other reptiles i've studied. They have that prehistoric look to them. When they get scared, they flee as fast as they can and love to swim and hide underwater. They are very smart lizards with incredible instincts. 

5. I learned from this article that these lizards aren't necessarily kept as pets, but are more for the wild and for those who enjoy dinosaurs. They come from Indonesia and the Philippines. Sailfin Dragons need large enclosures and can get up to six feet in length. Believe it or not, these lizards can live up to 25 years old!

6. No Questions~

7a. No, I wouldn't purchase this pet because they are in need of a decent enclosure and are not meant for handling.

b. Prices range from $100-400.

c. Backwater Reptiles carries them fro $100-$150 (http://www.backwaterreptiles.com/agamas/sailfin-dragon-for-sale.html) and Switzer reptiles has special ones for $850 (http://www.switzerreptiles.com/id68.html)

d. There is a yellow morph of the Sailfin dragon. (picture) 

e. Morphs are on the higher side of $500-$900

f. --->

g. Yes, they are endangered and under protection.

h. Yes, you need some type of permit to purchase/keep them. 

i. No controversy, basically kept in zoos.

8. Care requirements include a large enclosure for their slender body and large tail, heat lamp of 70-90 degrees, a mister and they are omnivores so they eat a variety of things.

9. Expert level because they are jumpy and large!

10. The most interesting thing is still their fin and amazing agility. Beautiful lizards overall...

Tiger Salamander

Blog #9 (Tiger Salamanders)

1. Tiger Salamander Care Sheet by John Clare

2. April 2014 Reptiles Magazine Online

3. I chose this article because the salamander doesn't look like a normal one. He has beady big eyes and is quite chunky. 

4. I chose this article because not many people keep salamanders as pets. Usually you can find them out in the wild under a rock in a stream. Tiger Salamanders are also considered a single species and is very interactive. Salamanders are also even more challenging to feed than frogs/toads. 

5. I learned these salamanders come in a variety of colors. They can come in bright creamy yellow stripes on dark brown background to pure blue-gray and even black with little orange spots. Some of the markings on the salamanders are also very interesting to look at. Also, Tiger Salamanders have the biggest recorded land salamander recorded exceeding 14 inches. 

6. Are these Salamanders easy to catch?

7a. No, I wouldn't want to purchase a tiger salamander. I wouldn't be patient enough to wait to feed them since their difficult. 

b. Typical prices - $30-$50.

c. They can be purchase at backwater reptiles for $30 http://www.backwaterreptiles.com/salamanders/tiger-salamander-for-sale.html and athttp://www.reptilesncritters.com/tiger-salamanders.html for $28.

d. Yes! 2 color morphs, yellow stripe & orange spots.

f. -

g. Yes they are endangered. 

h. You only need a permit if you are keeping more than 4 tiger salamanders. 

i. No controversy

8. Tiger salamanders need a container with an aquatic side and land side. As larvae they like the water side more, but can drown. They are picky eaters but do enjoy beetles, earthworms and crickets.

9. This is a beginner animal because it's terrarium is easy maintenance and they are just very chill except hard to feed at times. 

10. The most interesting thing about these salamanders are their orange spot morph. :) 

All Hail The California Kingsnake

Blog #8 (California Kings)

1. All Hail The California Kingsnake by Maria Scully

2. Reptiles Magazine Online, March 2014

3. I chose this article because california kings are a very popular snake this is known by all reptile lovers.

4. I liked that this is a snake native to the U.S. finally! It can be found in Oregon, Nevada, Arizona, Utah and of course, Cali. Kingsnakes are ophiophagus which means they can eat other snakes. Another favorite snack of the Cali king is bird eggs.

5. I learned that there are a ton of morphs of Cali kings. Some of them include chocolate n yellow, zebra type, and lavender banded. In the wild they are naturally striped with brown or white patterns. I know we have kings in the back so maybe I can associate with them more now :)

6. No Questions - 

7a. Yes, I would purchase a kingsnake because they adapt well and have a calm temperament. 

b. Cali Kings are about $40-90

c. They can be purchase at http://www.bigappleherp.com/ for about $40-50 and at http://www.backwaterreptiles.com/ for about $70-$130.

d. Yes! Many morphs, about 15.

e. Morphs cost around the higher end except albinos.

f. Morphs --->

g. No they aren't endangered.

h. No permit.

i. No controversy

8. Cali kings like a tank with a heat lamp and a water dish to soak in. They also eat pinkies, but may have a hard time at first adjusting to eating them. Overall, they are very simple to care for.

9. This animal is a beginner snake because of how laid back they are and how easy they are to take care of.

10. The most interesting thing about Cali Kings is that they look scary, but they really aren't. 

Firefighter Saves Boa Constrictor From Burning House!

Blog #7 (The Saved Boa)

1. Firefighter Saves Boa Constrictor From Burning House by John Virata

2. Reptile Magazine Online, Published in March 2014. 

3. I chose this article just because most people are scared of snakes and it was cool that a firefighter would save a pet like that. Boas are big snakes! 

4. I liked that this story came from Muskegon, Michigan! The house ended up burning down but all humans and animals were rescued safely :) Hemmelsbach, the reptile savior firefighter, agreed to go into the house to save the beloved pet. Just like our reptile team, he participated in one in high school which was pretty awesome. Impressive that he knew how to handle a startled 7 ft. boa name chocolate chip.

5. I learned that there are other people out there that have normal jobs, but have a passion for reptiles. It's cool that he took a small skill (snake handling) that he learned in high school and applied it to his job. Not many people would go in a burning house to save a 7 ft. snake that is frightened. It's especially cool that this came from Michigan too. 

6. No questions -

7. -

8. -

9. This animal is definitely an expert level animal because of how big they are and how startling they can be. They are "constrictors" after all.

10. The most interesting thing about boas is how big they can get!

Panther Chameleon's

Blog #6 (Panther Chameleon's)

1. Breeding Panther Chameleon's by Chad New

2. Reptiles Magazine Online, April 2014

3. I chose this article because when I was at VI pets I noticed the chameleons in one of the terrariums and they looked very interesting. I figured learning more about them would be cool. 

4. I liked that the author gave specific information on how to mate chameleon's for people who may not know how. Chameleon's are most active around 8 months old to breed. Females tend to be 2-4 inches longer than the males, but mate around the same age also. When a female doesn't want to mate she will turn black, hiss and try to bite the male. When she wants to mate, she will turn a nice salmon color. This is just a little detail on how to know when a chameleon is ready to breed.

5. I learned that when female chameleons do actually mate they will lay eggs at about 15 days. These eggs will be in numbers from 15-20 usually. Hatchlings like to be misted and fed frequently with fruit flies. These chameleons can come in many different colors. Once they are about 3-4 months old they are ready to be separated.

6. Is there a color a chameleon can't change too? How did they adapt this unique physical feature?

7a. Yes! I would love a chameleon :) They seem easy to care for, aren't skittish, don't smell and can be handled.

b. $150-$260

c. They can be purchased at http://www.backwaterreptiles.com/chameleons/panther-chameleon-for-sale.html for around $150-$250 and at http://screameleons.com/ for $180-$400.

d. A Panther is a morph a veiled chameleon!

e. -

f. -

g. Generally, chameleons aren't endangered. There are over 80 species of them and maybe 3-4 are in trouble.

h. No permit.

i. No controversy

8. An all screen tall enclosure is very typical for a chameleon to live in. They love tiki tiki trees made of bamboo to climb and rest on. They also need a mister to keep them healthy and at right temps. Heat lamps on for half the day is also nice for them. They enjoy small bugs and some fruit for their diet. 

9. This is a beginner animal because of how low maintenance they are and how they can be handled.

10. The most interesting thing is definitely that they can change colors! Not many animals can. 

Blue Tongue Skinks

Blog #5 (Blue Tongue Skinks)

1. Blue Tongue Skink Care Sheet by Phil Goss

2. Reptiles Magazine Online, March 2014

3. I chose this article because I haven't done a big lizard blog yet. 

4. I liked how the author of the article thoroughly addressed the care of a blue tongued skink. They are big lizards that should be kept alone because they like to fight. I also liked that he included that they have a very hardy diet. He also listed all the different food Skins can consume. It's a long list of fruits and vegetables.

5. I learned that skins are available seasonally around July- August. They also need specific temperatures to help with their thermoregulation. This helps them maintain temperature, absorb vitamins and remain healthy. They also have a very wide diet range and like a lot of fruits.

6. Why are skinks tongues blue?

7a. No, I don't want that big of a lizard. Plus, I feel like they'd be kinda stinky and agressive.

b. Skinks are in between $150-5,000 (if you want a rare skink)

c. They can be purchased at http://www.backwaterreptiles.com/skinks/blue-tongue-skink-for-sale.html for $160 and at http://www.petsuppliesplus.com/content.jsp?pageName=blue_tongue_skink for unknown prices. 

d. Yes, an albino and bluey morph.

e. Morphs are more expensive costing around $300-500.

f -

g. No, not endangered.

h. No permit needed to keep one. 

i. No controversy.

8. Skinks need rather large cages as they grow and should be house alone. They like temperatures between 75-82 degrees. They have a wide diet and are hardy eaters. They also like rocks to sit on in their enclosures. 

9. This would be a beginner animal because of how calm they are and they aren't very picky or specific on what they eat.

10. I like that this lizard has a blue tongue :)  

Blood & Short-Tailed Pythons

Blog #4 (Blood's & Short Tail Pythons)

1. Blood & Short Tailed Pythons by Kara & Ryan Norris

2. From the Reptiles Magazine Online, March 2014.

3. I chose this article because I know we have Bloods in the Reptile Room, but I haven't handled them much, so before I decide to handle more I want to know more about their behavior. 

4. I liked how the authors of this articles are trying to change the reputation of the bloods. Bloods are known as aggressive, high maintenance and big eaters. All of these traits actually come from the way these pythons are brought up. Most bloods are hatched from a mother that is wild-caught. After they hatch they are exported and sold through the reptile trade and may be handled in correctly. These pythons are subjected to a lot of shipping stress and become agitated easily.

5. I learned that a lot of bloods actually are prone to getting respiratory infections which is new to me. When looking to purchase a blood you want to look for a solid, plump and alert python. A blood with prominent backbones, slack skin and wrinkled scales may indicated that this snake has health problems. You can tell when they have an infection when they are huffing or gurgling. Watching for open mouth breathing is also an indicator of these problems. 

6. The only questions I have for bloods is I'd like to know where the Bloods we have at school came from! A breeder? Pet store? I'm curious :) Our bloods are actually pretty calm though.

7a. Yes, personally I'd think about getting a blood. I like the way pythons look and feel. Although, I would want a well behaved blood. Thrashing and aggressive snakes aren't very fun.

b. Bloods can range between $100-$550.

c. Bloods are available at http://bloodpythons.com/cms/ for between $300-$500 and at http://www.metalmonkeyexotics.com/blog/?cat=8 for unnamed prices.

d. There are over a dozen color morphs of blood pythons! 

e. Morphs like albino are more highly priced around $500-$600 or even more.

f. Albino Blood (top) & Lavender Albino Images are to the left --> 

g. Yes, these snakes are endangered due to their precious skin color.

h. No permit is needed to care for bloods.

i. No controversy in caring from bloods either. 

8. A cage that is 10 inches wide by 15 inches long by 5 inches tall is typical for a blood. They like temperatures in the 80's and sometimes like to soak in their water bowls. Bloods may be difficult to feed at first as hatchlings, but like to eat pinkies and rats for the bigger bloods. 

9. This animal is considered a intermediate animal because of their moodiness and their difficult feeding habits. 

10. The most interesting thing about the bloods to me is their beautiful skin and how many morphs there are of them. They are beautiful and I'm glad we have some to handle in our back room! 

Giant Day Gecko's

Blog #3 (Giant Day Gecko's)

1. Giant Day Gecko's by Jonathan Klarsfeld

2. From Reptile's Magazine Online, posted in March 2014.

3. I chose this article because the unique color of this gecko attracted my eye. The gecko is bright teal/green with reddish spots. Plus, I don't know a whole lot about geckos to begin with.

4. What I liked about this article is that this is the gecko that is modeled after the "Geico Gecko". These lizards are described as one of the most beautiful lizards in the world. I also liked learning that these lizards can get up to a foot long! Hence, their name "Giant" gecko. Females tend to be 2-3 inches smaller than the males though. I'm absolutely in love with their crimson spots and neon green skin though.

5. I learned that these Geckos come from Northern Madagascar and live in the tropical regions there. They can be found in pet stores, from breeders or at expo's ranging in prices from $45-$250. The average life span is 6-8 years, but they have recorded some living up to 20 years old! These geckos like to be housed with someone of the opposite gender because males tend to fight and females will reject each others company. These geckos are also great in health and are less prone to most diseases with their strong immune functions.

6. The only question I would have after reading this articles is if these geckos would ever exceed 1 foot in size...

7a. No, I wouldn't want to purchase one because it says in the article that they don't enjoy handling that much. I'm more of a hands-on reptile lover :)
b.These geckos range from $45-250 dollars.
c. One cool website that has them is - http://giantdaygecko.com/index.html. They list them in between $45-$500. They most expensive are called blue bloods which have a teal-ish tint to them. Another website that has them is http://www.backwaterreptiles.com/geckos/giant-day-gecko-for-sale.html. They list them for $75 and you can choose the sex of your lizard, but are blind to picking the color scheme.
d. There are 2 morphs - Crimson & Blue Blood.
e. Crimson's cost around $45-$250, Blue Blood's are more expensive ranging from $250-$600.
f. Images of the crimsons are above^ & Blue blood's are to the right.
g. No, they are not endangered.
h. No, you do not need a permit to keep this type of gecko.
i. No controversy with them being kept in captivity either -

8. These animals like a terrarium that is preferably 24 inches tall, 24 inches long, and 12 inches wide. Bamboo is a cage favorite of theirs. They also like UVB lights to give them positive nutrients that benefit their health. These temps range from 72-86 degrees Fahrenheit. Commercially, these geckos are opportunistic eaters. They will eat anything from fruit, crickets, wax worms, cockroaches and mealworms.

9. I would consider this a beginner animal because they don't need much, but basic food and a nice terrarium. Although, it kinda sucks that they don't like to be handled that often.

10. The most interesting thing about this animal is their vibrant colors and that the Geico Gecko is modeled after them!