Top 10 Reptiles to Keep as Pets

Reptiles are not only fun to watch, but they’re also easy to care for, which makes them great pets to have around the house. However, reptiles come in all shapes and sizes, which means it can be hard to choose the right one for you. To make your decision easier, check out this list of the top 10 reptiles to keep as pets! If you’re interested in buying one of these reptiles, you can search on Google or Amazon with that reptile’s name. Good luck!

1) Bearded Dragon

The Bearded Dragon is one of two types of lizards that can be kept as pets in a United States household. With their extreme docility and trainability, they are considered by many herpetologists to be among the most friendly reptile pets available. However, it’s important for new owners not to mistake their gentleness for an inability or unwillingness to defend themselves if threatened.

2) Leopard Gecko

A popular pet for decades, leopard geckos (Eublepharis macularius) are known for their energetic personalities and interesting lightning bug eyes. These nocturnal lizards need temperatures ranging from 76 degrees Fahrenheit during daylight hours down to 65 degrees at night. Younger leopard geckos may be housed in plastic shoeboxes, while adults should have a ten-gallon terrarium or larger.

3) Iguana

The great thing about iguanas is that they don’t require a lot of space or a big environment. They do, however, need access to food and water at all times and temperatures between 72 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Since they’re so independent, an iguana can make a great pet for just about anyone willing to offer him or her a safe place with adequate living conditions.

4) Ball Python

The ball python has a docile nature, making it one of the most popular reptile pets in North America. It’s also quite beautiful, covered in a rainbow-like pattern of black and red or brown and tan bands. Ball pythons are easy to care for and usually live between 20 and 30 years. While they can grow up to 4 feet long, they do not reach their full size until at least 5 years old.

5) Uromastyx Lizard

This lizard is medium-sized and can grow up to 16 inches long. It doesn’t require a large enclosure, but you should make sure it gets enough heat and UVB light, or it might develop health problems. You can find Uromastyx Lizards at most reptile stores.

6) Blue Tongue Skink

The blue tongue skink is a large skink, and they do tend to grow larger than other species of skinks. They are social creatures and thrive when kept in pairs or in groups. Their natural habitat is open fields, so it’s essential that they have an ample amount of room when kept as pets. If provided with an adequate environment, they can live up to 20 years in captivity.

7) Corn Snake

Corn snakes are medium-sized, slender snakes with smooth scales. Corn snakes typically grow between 3 and 5 feet in length, although some subspecies are known to reach 6 feet. The average lifespan of a corn snake is about 20 years, with proper care and attention. All corn snakes will shed their skin at least once per year, but shedding can occur several times throughout each year depending on humidity levels and how often you handle your pet.

8) Anoles (Anolis Carolinensis, etc.)

Considered one of the good beginner lizards, anoles are small, active and commonly kept in captivity. They can come in a variety of beautiful colors, too, which makes them visually appealing. If you decide to purchase an anole lizard for your family pet, be sure you research beforehand how much care they require.

9) Ball Pythons (Python Regius)

Ball pythons are gentle, sweet-tempered reptiles that do not grow larger than five feet long. These snakes enjoy sleeping inside of a cozy hide box, but they’re also very active and love interacting with their owners. They don’t require much maintenance and will eat mice once a week or so. Some owners report them being calm enough to handle daily, but we suggest leaving handling to an experienced handler. Ball pythons generally cost between $50 and $150.

10) Green Tree Python

Found in Southeast Asia, Australia and New Guinea, Green Tree Pythons (Morelia viridis) are semi-arboreal snakes that tend to live near water. They are well known for their versatility and calm disposition. Green Tree Pythons make great pets because they are docile, handle easily and have great eye-sight – allowing them to be handled with ease! If you’re looking for a beginner snake, consider purchasing a Green Tree Python.