Herp Keeping 101

What Is a Herp?

“Herp” is a common term used to refer to reptiles and amphibians. The word comes from herpetology, the scientific study of ectothermic (cold-blooded) vertebrate animals. Although ectothermic vertebrates also include fish, the study of fish is known as ichthyology.

One of the most common questions we hear is: "Aren't amphibians and reptiles the same thing?” The answer is no.

Amphibians are ectothermic vertebrates that typically live in both aquatic and terrestrial environments throughout their lives. Common examples include frogs and toads, salamanders and newts, and caecilians. Amphibians generally have moist, permeable skin that assists with respiration, and most species undergo an aquatic larval stage before metamorphosing into their adult form. A familiar example is the tadpole stage of frogs and toads.

Reptiles, by contrast, are air-breathing vertebrates with scales covering part or all of their bodies. The major groups of reptiles include turtles (Testudines), tuataras (Rhynchocephalia), lizards and snakes (Squamata), and crocodilians (Crocodylia). While modern science places birds within the reptile lineage, they are studied and kept separately from reptiles in the pet trade and hobby.

So, can herps be kept as pets?

Keeping Herps as Pets

Many reptiles and amphibians can make excellent pets, but their care requirements differ significantly from those of traditional companion animals such as cats and dogs. Successful herp keeping requires understanding and meeting each species’ unique environmental and behavioral needs.

When caring for herps, several important factors must be considered:

·         Temperature and heat gradients

·         Humidity levels

·         Ventilation and airflow

·         Lighting requirements

·         Nutrition

·         Natural behaviors

·         Adult size and enclosure space

By understanding these requirements, we can create enclosures that closely mimic a species’ natural habitat and support its health and well-being.

Let's compare two popular pet reptiles: the crested gecko (Correlophus ciliatus) and the leopard gecko (Eublepharis macularius).

Crested Gecko

Crested geckos are arboreal lizards native to New Caledonia’s tropical forests. They typically reach 8 to 10 inches in length, are primarily nocturnal, and thrive in humidity levels between 60% and 80%. Ideal temperatures range from 65°F to 85°F. Crested geckos are omnivores, feeding on a combination of fruit-based diets and insects.

Leopard Gecko

Leopard geckos are terrestrial lizards native to the semi-arid regions of Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, and Nepal. They typically grow 7 to 10 inches long and are crepuscular, meaning they are most active at dawn and dusk. Leopard geckos thrive in humidity levels between 30% and 50% and require temperatures ranging from approximately 70°F to 100°F within their enclosure. Unlike crested geckos, leopard geckos are insectivores and feed primarily on insects.

Similar Animals, Different Needs

Although both species are geckos, they have evolved in very different environments and require different care. A setup that is ideal for a crested gecko would be unsuitable for a leopard gecko, and vice versa.

Understanding these differences is one of the most important aspects of responsible herp keeping. In upcoming articles, we'll take a closer look at habitat design, heating, lighting, humidity, nutrition, and other key topics to help you provide the best possible care for your animals.