Intro to reptile husbandry

Question 1

What is the difference between exotic animals and domesticated animals?

Answer 1

Many exotics = wild caught or captive bred only for a limited number of generations i.e., not ‘domesticated’

Exotic animals often have specific needs that differ significantly from domesticated species.

Question 2

What specialized requirements do exotic animals often have?

Answer 2

Require specialised environments, nutrition, management

This includes mimicking their natural habitat to ensure their well-being.

Question 3

What are the Fundamental 5 freedoms?

Answer 3

Freedom from hunger and thirst, discomfort, pain, injury, and disease, fear and distress, and to express normal behavior

These freedoms are essential for the welfare of captive animals.

Question 4

What are some common reptiles kept in captivity?

Answer 4

• Corn snake
• Ball python/royal python
• Hermann’s tortoise
• Horsfield tortoise
• Red-eared slider
• Bearded dragon

Each species has unique habitat and care requirements.

Question 5

What is the maximum length of a Corn snake?

Answer 5

<1.5m

Corn snakes are popular due to their manageable size and temperament.

Question 6

What is the dorsal shell of a tortoise called?

Answer 6

Carapace

The ventral shell is known as the plastron.

Question 7

What is a key requirement for reptiles and amphibians in captivity?

Answer 7

Must know wild requirements of species

Understanding the natural habitat is crucial for proper care.

Question 8

What does ‘crepuscular’ mean?

Answer 8

Active at the start and end of day, not in the middle

These animals need hiding places during peak daylight hours.

Question 9

What are poikilotherms?

Answer 9

Cold blooded - depend on external temperature to maintain body temperature

This characteristic affects how they are housed and cared for.

Question 10

What is essential for calcium production in reptiles?

Answer 10

Vitamin D

It can be obtained from UV light or direct sunlight exposure.

Question 11

What is a common substrate consideration for reptiles?

Answer 11

Appropriate for species; avoid wood shavings unless certain of size and source

Substrate choice impacts cleanliness and animal health.

Question 12

What is a major problem associated with poor nutrition in reptiles?

Answer 12

Reptile anorexia

This condition can be complex, influenced by light, prey, and environmental conditions.

Question 13

What should beginners consider when keeping snakes?

Answer 13

Encourage beginner to start small (e.g., corn snake)

Starting with manageable species helps build experience.

Question 14

What is the difference between homeotherms and poikilotherms?

Answer 14

Homeotherm can regulate and maintain internal body temperature, whereas poikilotherms cannot

This affects their behavior and habitat needs.

Question 15

What are some consequences of poor husbandry?

Answer 15

• Poor nutrition
• Inappetance
• Excess feeding: obesity
• Burns from heat pads
• Respiratory illness

These issues can lead to severe health problems in reptiles.

Question 16

What are some pathogens that can thrive in warm, humid conditions ideal for reptiles?

Answer 16

• Campylobacter
• E.coli
• Klebsiella
• Leptospira

These can cause serious health issues if not managed properly.