Eve's Exotics PH

BEARDED DRAGON

Bearded dragons, scientifically known as Pogona vitticeps, are popular reptile pets known for their unique appearance and docile nature. Native to the arid regions of Australia, they are named after the spiky projections under their chin that resemble a beard. Here is some information about bearded dragons:

Appearance: Bearded dragons are medium-sized lizards, with adult males reaching a length of about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 centimeters), while females are slightly smaller. They have a robust body, flattened shape, and a triangular head. Their skin is covered in rough scales, and they possess spiny projections called "beards" under their throats. Bearded dragons display a wide range of colors, including shades of brown, tan, yellow, and orange. They also have the ability to change their color slightly to regulate their body temperature.

Habitat: In the wild, bearded dragons inhabit a variety of arid environments, including deserts, woodlands, and scrublands in Australia. They are adept climbers and spend a significant amount of time basking on rocks or branches. In captivity, they require a suitable enclosure that provides enough space for them to move around and a temperature gradient to regulate their body temperature.

Behavior and Temperament: Bearded dragons are known for their calm and friendly demeanor, which makes them popular pets. With regular and gentle handling, they can become quite tame and enjoy human interaction. They are diurnal (active during the day) and display a range of interesting behaviors, such as head bobbing, arm waving, and puffing out their beards to display dominance or courtship.

Diet: Bearded dragons are omnivorous, with a diet consisting of both insects and plant matter. As juveniles, their diet primarily consists of insects, such as crickets, mealworms, and small roaches. As they grow, they gradually incorporate more plant matter into their diet, including leafy greens, vegetables, and fruits. A balanced diet is crucial to their health, and supplementation with calcium and vitamin D3 is often necessary to prevent metabolic bone disease.

Enclosure and Care: A proper enclosure for a bearded dragon should be spacious and provide an environment that mimics their natural habitat. It should include a temperature gradient, with a basking spot on one end that reaches around 95 to 105°F (35 to 40°C) and a cooler side around 75 to 85°F (24 to 29°C). UVB lighting is essential for their health, as it helps them metabolize calcium and prevents issues like metabolic bone disease. The enclosure should also have hiding spots, branches, rocks, and a shallow water dish for drinking and soaking.

Reproduction: Bearded dragons are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs. Breeding season typically occurs during the spring months, and female bearded dragons can lay clutches of 15 to 30 eggs. Incubation of the eggs takes about two months, and the s*x of the hatchlings is influenced by temperature.

Bearded dragons are fascinating and rewarding pets, known for their charming personalities and relatively easy care requirements. However, it's important to thoroughly research their needs and provide appropriate husbandry to ensure their well-being. Regular veterinary check-ups, a proper diet, and a suitable environment are essential for their long-term health.




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KENYAN SAND BOA

The Kenyan Sand Boa, scientific name Gongylophis colubrinus, is a small non-venomous snake belonging to the family Boidae. It is native to the arid regions of East Africa, particularly Kenya and Tanzania. This species is popular among reptile enthusiasts due to its manageable size, docile nature, and unique appearance.

Here are some key features and characteristics of the Kenyan Sand Boa:

Appearance: Kenyan Sand Boas are relatively small snakes, typically reaching an adult length of 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 centimeters). They have stout bodies with short, blunt tail. Their coloration varies, but they commonly have a sandy or light brown base color with darker brown or reddish-brown markings arranged in a series of saddle-like patterns along their back. Some individuals may also exhibit albino or patternless morphs.

Head and Scales: These boas have a triangular-shaped head with small eyes and a rounded snout. Their scales are smooth and shiny, providing an attractive appearance. They have heat-sensing pits on their upper lips, which aid in locating warm-blooded prey.

Habitat: Kenyan Sand Boas are primarily found in dry, sandy habitats such as deserts, savannahs, and scrublands. They are well-adapted to burrowing and spend much of their time underground or hiding beneath rocks or vegetation.

Behavior and Temperament: These boas are generally calm and placid snakes. They are primarily nocturnal, preferring to be active during the night. Kenyan Sand Boas are ambush predators and spend most of their time lying in wait for small rodents, lizards, or other small prey to pass by. They use constriction to subdue their prey before swallowing it whole.

Reproduction: Female Kenyan Sand Boas are larger than males. They give birth to live young rather than laying eggs, which is a characteristic of boas. The gestation period lasts for about four to five months, and a female can give birth to a small litter of around 5 to 15 offspring, depending on her size.

Care and Maintenance: Kenyan Sand Boas are relatively easy to care for in captivity. They are known for their hardiness and adaptability. A suitable enclosure for a single adult should be at least a 20-gallon tank with secure lid or a similarly sized enclosure with proper ventilation. The tank should have a substrate of sand or a sandy-soil mix, which allows the snake to burrow and exhibit its natural behavior. The temperature gradient in the enclosure should range from around 80 to 90°F (27 to 32°C) on the warm side and the low 70s°F (low 20s°C) on the cool side. A shallow water dish should also be provided for drinking and soaking.

Feeding: Kenyan Sand Boas are carnivorous and primarily feed on small mammals, such as mice or rats, appropriately sized for their own body size. They are sit-and-wait predators, striking at their prey when it comes close enough. Young snakes will typically eat more frequently than adults, with feedings every 5 to 7 days, while adults may be fed every 10 to 14 days.

Overall, the Kenyan Sand Boa is a fascinating and relatively low-maintenance snake species that can make an interesting pet for reptile enthusiasts, especially those who appreciate their burrowing behavior and unique appearance. It is always important to research and ensure you can provide the necessary care and conditions before acquiring any reptile as a pet.



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BALL PYTHONS

Ball pythons (Python regius) are popular pet snakes known for their docile nature, manageable size, and beautiful patterns. Here's some information about ball pythons:

Size: Ball pythons are relatively small compared to some other python species. On average, they grow between 3 to 5 feet (0.9 to 1.5 meters) in length. Females are usually larger than males. Their modest size makes them easier to handle and accommodate in captivity.

Natural Habitat: Ball pythons are native to sub-Saharan Africa, primarily found in countries like Ghana, Togo, Benin, and Nigeria. In the wild, they inhabit grasslands, savannas, and scrub forests. They are ground-dwelling snakes and are known for their ability to curl into a tight ball when threatened, which is where their common name originates.

Appearance: Ball pythons exhibit a range of striking colors and patterns, making them highly sought after as pets. Their base color can vary from shades of brown to black, with patterns of irregular spots or blotches that can be light or dark. These patterns give them a unique and beautiful appearance.

Temperament: Ball pythons have a reputation for being calm and docile snakes. They are generally known for their easy-going nature and tend to be more tolerant of handling compared to some other snake species. However, it's important to note that individual temperaments can vary, and some ball pythons may be more defensive or nervous than others.

Feeding: In the wild, ball pythons are carnivorous and primarily feed on small mammals such as rats, mice, and other rodents. In captivity, they are commonly fed pre-killed or frozen-thawed rodents. The size of the prey should be appropriate for the snake's girth to avoid any digestion issues.

Housing: 30 Liters or 40 Liters under-bed plastic storage box is enough with vent holes, aspen beddings, or Emily's pet wood shavings, and a bowl of clean water.

Temperature and Humidity: Ball pythons are ectothermic, meaning they rely on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature. They require a temperature gradient within their enclosure, with a warm side ranging from 88-92°F (31-33°C) and a cool side around 78-82°F (25-28°C). Providing a temperature gradient allows the snake to thermoregulate and choose the desired temperature. The humidity level should be maintained between 50% and 60% for most of the time, with occasional increases during shedding.

Lifespan: With proper care, ball pythons can live for 20 to 30 years or even longer in captivity. Providing them with suitable housing, proper temperature and humidity, a balanced diet, and regular veterinary check-ups contribute to their longevity.

Ball pythons are popular pet snakes due to their manageable size and calm demeanor. However, it's important to research and understand their specific care requirements before bringing one into your home. Consulting with a reptile expert or a veterinarian specializing in reptiles can provide valuable guidance to ensure you can provide a suitable and enriching environment for your ball python.





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LEOPARD GECKO

Leopard geckos (Eublepharis macularius) are small, charming reptiles that make popular pets. Here's some information about leopard geckos:

Appearance: Leopard geckos have a unique and beautiful appearance. They are small-sized, typically ranging from 6 to 10 inches (15 to 25 cm) in length. They have a stout body, a large head with prominent eyes, and a distinctive tail that they can drop as a defense mechanism. Their skin features various colors and patterns, resembling the spots of a leopard, hence their name.

Native Habitat: Leopard geckos are native to the arid regions of Pakistan, Afghanistan, and parts of India. They are well-adapted to desert-like environments and have some unique characteristics that set them apart from other gecko species.

Temperament: Leopard geckos are generally docile and relatively easy to handle. With proper care and regular interaction, they can become accustomed to their owners and tolerate gentle handling. However, it's important to remember that individual geckos may have different temperaments, so patience and respect should always be exercised when handling them.

Nocturnal Behavior: Leopard geckos are primarily nocturnal, which means they are most active during the night. They have excellent night vision and rely on their sense of smell and hearing to navigate their environment and locate prey.

Diet: Leopard geckos are insectivores, meaning they primarily eat insects. Their diet typically consists of live insects like crickets, mealworms, and dubia roaches. It's important to provide a varied diet to ensure they receive proper nutrition. Some geckos may also accept commercially available gecko diets, but live insects should still be offered as a staple food source.

Housing: Leopard geckos are usually kept in glass terrariums or reptile enclosures. A 20-gallon tank is suitable for an individual adult gecko, although larger enclosures are always beneficial. The enclosure should have a secure lid to prevent escape. Providing hiding spots, a shallow dish of water, and suitable substrate (such as reptile carpet, paper towels, or tile) is essential for their comfort and well-being.

Temperature and Lighting: Not required in tropical countries, just used CALCIUM powder with D3

Lifespan: With proper care, leopard geckos can live for 10 to 20 years or even longer in captivity. A well-balanced diet, appropriate housing, and regular veterinary check-ups contribute to their longevity.

Leopard geckos make fascinating and low-maintenance pets, suitable for beginners and experienced reptile enthusiasts alike. Remember to thoroughly research their care requirements and consult with a reptile expert or a veterinarian specializing in reptiles to ensure you can provide them with a suitable environment and proper care.






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IGUANA

Iguanas are fascinating reptiles that belong to the family Iguanidae. They are known for their distinctive appearance, which includes long bodies, powerful legs, and a crest of spines that runs down their back. Here are some key facts about iguanas:

Species and Distribution: There are several species of iguanas, with the green iguana (Iguana iguana) being the most common. Green iguanas are native to Central and South America, but they have also been introduced to other parts of the world, including Florida and parts of the Caribbean.

Size and Lifespan: Iguanas are among the largest lizards in the world. Adult green iguanas can reach lengths of 4 to 6 feet (1.2 to 1.8 meters) and weigh up to 20 pounds (9 kilograms). With proper care, they can live for 10 to 20 years or even longer in captivity.

Diet: Iguanas are primarily herbivorous, meaning they eat a plant-based diet. Their natural diet consists of leaves, flowers, fruits, and some vegetables. It's important to provide them with a well-balanced diet that includes a variety of leafy greens, vegetables, and occasional fruits.

Habitat: In the wild, iguanas are typically found in tropical rainforests, where they spend much of their time in trees. They are excellent climbers and have strong limbs and sharp claws to help them navigate their arboreal habitat. In captivity, they require a spacious enclosure with climbing structures, basking areas, and UVB lighting to mimic their natural habitat.

Behavior: Iguanas are generally solitary creatures and can be territorial. They are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day, and they rely on the sun to regulate their body temperature. Iguanas are known for their ability to change color, which helps them regulate their body temperature and communicate with other iguanas.

Handling and Care: Proper handling of iguanas is important to ensure their well-being. However, they can be quite sensitive and may become stressed if not handled correctly. It's essential to provide a suitable environment, maintain proper temperatures and humidity, and offer regular veterinary care to keep them healthy.

Challenges: Owning an iguana requires a significant commitment of time, effort, and resources. They can grow quite large and have specific care needs, including proper housing, and a well-balanced diet.

It's important to thoroughly research and understand their requirements before bringing an iguana into your home.








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