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Reptiles & Amphibians

Care for turtles, geckos, snakes, frogs and more.

Male frog with inflated vocal sacs mid-croak in a shallow pond at golden hour
Reptiles & Amphibians

Why Frogs Croak

If you've ever wondered about that distinctive ribbit sound echoing from your garden pond on a warm evening, you're not alone. Frog croaking is one of nature's most recognisable sounds, yet many pet owners don't realise that these fascinating amphibians are actually communicating in sophisticated wa…

Sarah BennettJuly 7, 2026
Red-eared slider turtle with fluttering front claws during courtship display
Reptiles & Amphibians

What Fluttering Claws Mean in Red-Eared Sliders

If you've noticed your red-eared slider turtle rapidly fluttering or vibrating its front claws whilst facing another turtle or even the glass of its enclosure, you may have wondered what this peculiar behaviour means. This distinctive gesture is actually one of the most important communication signa…

Sarah BennettJuly 7, 2026
A diamondback terrapin in shallow brackish water with marsh grasses, showing its distinctive diamond-patterned shell and powerful jaws
Reptiles & Amphibians

Should You Keep a Diamondback Terrapin as a Pet?

Diamondback terrapins are captivating creatures with their distinctive diamond-patterned shells and intriguing semi-aquatic lifestyle. However, before you decide to bring one home, it's essential to understand what caring for these remarkable reptiles truly involves. These turtles are protected in m…

Sarah BennettJuly 7, 2026
Leopard gecko with spotted pale yellow and white patterned skin resting on cork bark under gentle UVB lighting in a terrarium with dark hiding spots and natural decor
Reptiles & Amphibians

Do Leopard Geckos Need UVB?

If you're considering a leopard gecko as a pet or already caring for one, you've likely wondered about UVB lighting. This question sits at the heart of modern reptile care, with passionate opinions on both sides. The truth is nuanced: whilst leopard geckos are primarily nocturnal and don't require U…

Sarah BennettJuly 7, 2026
Can More Than One Bearded Dragon Live Together
Reptiles & Amphibians

Can More Than One Bearded Dragon Live Together?

Many new bearded dragon owners wonder whether these fascinating reptiles can share a living space. It's a natural question, especially if you're considering expanding your scaled family or simply want to maximise your setup efficiency. However, the straightforward answer is that bearded dragons are …

Sarah BennettJuly 7, 2026
A turtle tank filled with green, murky water caused by algae bloom, with a red-eared slider turtle barely visible swimming through the cloudy water.
Reptiles & Amphibians

Why Does the Water in Your Turtle Tank Turn Green?

If you've noticed your turtle's tank water has turned an unpleasant shade of green, you're not alone. This common problem frustrates many turtle owners and indicates that something needs attention. The good news is that green tank water is entirely preventable once you understand what causes it. In …

Sarah BennettJuly 7, 2026
Veterinarian examining a turtle's plastron and tail to determine gender
Reptiles & Amphibians

How to Tell the Gender of a Turtle

Whether you're a seasoned turtle keeper or considering adopting your first shelled companion, understanding your pet's gender is an essential part of responsible reptile care. Unlike many other pets, determining whether your turtle is male or female requires careful observation and knowledge of spec…

Sarah BennettJuly 7, 2026
Red-eared slider turtle swimming in a clear aquarium with UVB lighting and basking platform visible
Reptiles & Amphibians

How Long Do Turtles Live?

Thinking about welcoming a turtle into your home? Before you commit to this scaly companion, you should know one important fact: turtles are exceptionally long-lived pets. Unlike most other household animals, many turtle species can live for several decades, and some may even outlive their owners. T…

Sarah BennettJuly 7, 2026
What to Know About Ball Python Bites
Reptiles & Amphibians

What to Know About Ball Python Bites

Ball pythons are generally docile and make wonderful pets for both experienced reptile keepers and beginners alike. However, like any snake, they can bite if they feel threatened, confused, or stressed. Understanding why ball pythons bite and how to respond appropriately is essential for safe and ha…

Sarah BennettJuly 7, 2026

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