Many reptiles and amphibians can make for great pets for the kids or family, and can be great ways of instilling greater levels of responsibility and awareness, as well as involvement in conservation, education, and connection to our natural world, but there are also many important considerations that should be made before you make that decision to do so.

In Wisconsin, there are only two species of native, or indigenous venomous snakes, the Eastern Massasauga (Sistrurus catenatus catenatus), and the Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus), both of which are shy, and secretive species that rely on their coloration and patterning to avoid being detected.

The Top Ten Beginner’s List of Amphibians!

Using “live”, or living plants inside an enclosure or vivarium for your reptile or amphibian is rapidly growing in popularity, and there are both many different species and types of plants which may be used, as well as materials and methods by which it can be done.

Perhaps one of the most commonly asked reptile related husbandry questions asked in person, on forums, and elsewhere on the Internet, particularly among new or beginning reptile keepers, is "my snake will not eat! What should I do?"

When it comes to the maintenance and proper care of many species of aquatic to semi-aquatic turtles in captivity or as pets, providing a proper and dry “basking area” out of the water is essential for maintaining these animal’s health and well-being.

The Top Ten (10) best beginner invertebrates!

Turtles and tortoises, which are sometimes collectively referred to as the “chelonians” stemming from the formal name for which unites all members of the order Testudines, the turtles and tortoises, are one of the most unique groups of reptiles in that they are the only groups of reptiles with a (usually) hardened, outer shell when can oftentimes be used for protection and defense, as well as aiding in thermoregulation, locomotion, and movement.

Turtles, tortoises, and terrapins are among the oldest, and most familiar and well known groups of reptiles, with some of their earliest ancestors dating as far back as the late Triassic Period some 220 million years ago (or MYA).