All breeds and species.
Another species of this genus so docile and friendly from Southeast Asia. They are just as easy to maintain as the others. It is convenient to put a little humidity in the terrarium so that they stay more hydrated and shiny, although the ground may be dry. Food based on cricket and worms.
Price 20 to 30 EUR.
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The Marbled gecko it is quite common in some parts of Melbourne, but people rarely see it because it's nocturnal. You will most likely find them among driftwood in your garden, on your roof or even inside, behind a photo frame.
The Marbled gecko is a small soft-bellied lizard, of up 150 length mm. Easily identified by large finger and toe pads, that extend to grip slippery or soft surfaces. Lacks mobile eyelids and uses the tongue to keep the eyes clean. It is insectivorous by nature., but eat anything small enough to fit in your mouth. In summer, females usually lay a clutch, containing two eggs at once.
The Marbled gecko is a very easy lizard to accommodate, since it is nocturnal and does not need heat or light. In cold areas, a heating pad or heat cord covering no more than 1/3 of the base during the colder months to keep them more active. Be sure to place them in a well-lit room if not using an overhead light so that a night/day simulation can be achieved. How is a small gecko, a small enclosure is suitable.
The minimum size would be a reptile terrarium of 45 cm.. The substrate should consist of a mixture of sand and clay, that makes it suitable for excavation. You have to place other pieces of rock or wood around the enclosure so that they have many places to hide. A small bowl of shallow water is recommended and it is also beneficial to spray the water regularly, as they are more likely to lick water from a piece of wood or rock than to drink from a bowl.
The diet of the Marbled gecko consists mainly of small crickets and flies. When they are younger they should be fed every day and when they are adults every other day is fine. Wax worms and small silkworms may be offered when available. Crickets should be dusted with multivitamin and calcium powder weekly.
The price of a Marbled gecko in the exotic animal market around the 20 EUR.
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The North African mastigure (Uromastyx acanthinura) It is a lizard native to North Africa. (northwest africa).
Their habitats are usually in the mountains and consist of rocky desert and sandy stony desert., not found in purely sandy deserts.
They reach a head-torso length of up to 28 cm and a total length of 45 cm.. To the North African mastigure likes to sunbathe and can change color to regulate temperature. In their native habitat they live in rock deserts and scree, that is to say, in very rare habitats called hamada, and they like to dig. They make their own burrows, have a relatively constant climate.
The North African mastigure it is very territorial in nature and keeping one male and several females is only possible in a large terrarium. It is best to keep them in pairs..
To keep the North African mastigure, we recommend the following conditions. Especially when the minimum size is specified, note that optimal conditions can only be achieved in much larger terrariums.
You have to let the animals hibernate for three or four months. The North African mastigure needed between 12 and 18ยฐC โโfor it. Hibernation is very important for animals to regulate their bodily functions and stay healthy. It's also a good way to prevent obesity.
hibernation is very important. The North African mastigure puts up to 26 eggs. These should not be incubated too wet, otherwise they will easily turn into fungi. The pups of Uromastyx acanthinura can be bred together in a group for up to two years, provided they are compatible. It is essential to provide enough calcium and vitamins.
The diet of the North African mastigure includes banana, vine leaves, dandelion, margaritas, clover, pamplinas, sometimes kitchen herbs and grains like corn, rice, millet, sunflower seeds and others. Young animals feed up to a 75% of animals. These may include, crickets, grasshopper, cockroaches, sometimes zophobas and other live food. Adults should be fed little or no animal food to prevent fatty degeneration..
no lettuce, iceberg lettuce or similar, since its calcium-phosphorus content is unfavorable. And cabbage or spinach should only be fed rarely due to oxalic acid…
Fruit should also be provided only in moderation., if it is accepted.
Additional vitamin and mineral supplements are recommended.
The price of a "North African mastigure" bred in captivity in the exotic animal market, ranges between 150 – 200 EUR.
1. North African mastigure (English).
2. Bell's dabb lizard (French).
3. Nordafrikanische Dornschwanzagame (German).
4. Lagarto-de-Cauda-Espinhosa-Norte-Africano (Portuguese).
5. "Lagarto de cola espinosa del norte de รfrica" (espaรฑol).
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The African spurred tortoise first received a scientific name, Testudo sulcata, by the English illustrator of animals and plants John Frederick Miller in 1779. It was later assigned for a long time to the genus. Geochelone Fitzinger, 1835. But, following a proposal by the French herpetologist Roger Bour in 1985, is now placed in the old subgenre Centrochelys Gray, 1872, which has since been elevated to the category of gender. So far no subspecies have been described.
The African spurred tortoise (Centrochelys sulcata) is native to the Sahara Desert and the Sahel, a transitional ecoregion of semi-arid grasslands, savannahs and thorny thickets found in the countries of Burkina Faso, the Central African Republic, Chad, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Mali, Mauritania, Nigeria, Senegal, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Yemen and possibly Somalia, Algeria, Benin and Cameroon. Possibly extinct in Djibouti and Togo.
The dorsal shell รขโฌโ also called the carapacho รขโฌโ, of about 80 cm size, it is quite flattened and has curved marginal shields around it. Strongly pronounced growth rings remain visible into old age, but they also give it its character. Throat shields protrude from the edge of the dorsal carapace, are curved upwards and are forked. These give the turtle their name of "spur turtle". A split can also be found in the rear shield. The color of the African spurred tortoise is cream, yellow-orange and sometimes brown or olive. You can't name a certain trend.
At the bottom of the African spurred tortoise a very clear and often almost white ventral shell can be seen that also shows growth rings. On the hind legs there is a very striking spur that also gave name to the animals.
When are born, theAfrican spurred tortoise weighs between 30 and 40 g.. Their weight multiplies in the first year. At one year of age, usually weigh between 150 and 210 g.. The growth of the African spurred tortoise depends largely on how it is maintained. Animals that are kept in an optimal environment grow evenly and gain weight each month. Specimens exposed to great stress usually have growth problems and can even lose weight in the meantime..
The African spurred tortoise inhabits three different vegetation zones. Among them are dry and hot grasslands of semi-desert character, leafy thickets and grasslands with stands of acacia. Daytime temperatures above 40 ยฐC are the norm in its distribution area. You can even reach the 50 ยฐC. The minimum temperature values โโare 3-21 ยฐC. But, in some biotopes night frosts may occasionally occur.
The sparse vegetation of the habitat of the African spurred tortoise consists mainly of several species of acacias, baobab, tamarinds, species of thorny shrubs, species of wild millet, Digitaria sp., Panicum sp., thorny herbs Cenchrus sp. and low growth, mainly annual, of herbs and pastures.
The African spurred tortoise it is a cold-blooded reptile that needs to minimize seasonal and diurnal temperature fluctuations through appropriate behavior to maintain a suitable body temperature. An important role in this type of thermoregulation is the search for a suitable shelter for the season and time of day.. As such, the African spurred tortoise uses burrows in the ground, that may have up to 4 m depth and 15 m length. If available, use the abandoned burrows of other animals. But from the 2-3 years of age, the African spurred tortoise also digs underground tunnels on its own with its strong front legs and, sometimes, with the throat shields in the form of a hairpin. They don't normally use a single burrow, but "possess" several, that they sometimes share with other turtles and even with other animal species.
In the coldest season, the African spurred tortoise it already comes out of its burrow in the morning and warms up before going in search of food. On the other hand, in the hottest season, often only activated in the evening hours. In the intervening periods, is usually active in two phases, that is to say, returns to its burrow during the hot day. In particular, the wettest season is used intensively, while dry and hot periods must also be endured inactively in the burrow to protect themselves from desiccation. During this summer lethargy, metabolism and heartbeat are greatly reduced, similar to the winter lethargy of other species.
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Vulnerable โ
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The African spurred tortoise is listed as endangered on the Red List and threatened in Appendix II of the Washington Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species. The reasons are the collection for personal use (pets, foods) and for export, the fragmentation and urban expansion of what was once a huge mountain range, and the advance of the desert towards the mountain range.
On the other hand, breeding in the care of man has been very successful.
These turtles need a lot of space and cannot be kept in a large terrarium even in winter after two or three years.. Then you need a full room in a room of the house, or a very modern and heavily heated stable. Many owners have converted their garage for this purpose. Insulation made to keep warm, but also good ventilation for good circulation are a great challenge based on opposites.
The African spurred tortoise needs a permanent ambient temperature of 30 ยฐC and also heat sources under which the values โโcan be reached. 45 ยฐC. Animals must stay outdoors in summer. But, they always need access to the barn or the room where the 30 ยฐC. Who thinks that this is not a problem in summer because of the high temperatures outside, you will soon learn to do better. The place is heated basically all year round and, Therefore, energy costs will amount to several hundred euros.
Then there's the food. Although animals eat almost only hay in winter and feed on straw, you have to bring bales of hay. The African spurred tortoise eats a lot because it is extremely large. Nor should you assume that you are going to buy a Turtle until there is no more space. Why deliver a great African spurred tortoise a new owner is a feat and often unsuccessful. Most of these tortoises reach their owners when they are young., who often don't know what they're doing. There are few people who take a African spurred tortoise adult, and only on rare occasions do they take one from an animal park, because here you have to face reality.
The female of the African spurred tortoise reaches sexual maturity when weighing between 15 and 20 kg. The age of the tortoise plays a very minor role here.. The animal usually reaches that weight at the age of 10 years. Some specimens only reach this weight at the age of 12 to 15 years. Males growing in the same environment usually need one to three more years..
The African spurred tortoise puts 3 clutches per year and up to 40 eggs in a year. The hatchlings take a few 120 days to hatch. There is no specific time of year for mating. In captivity, this usually occurs in the normal summer, since that is when the days are cooler and rainier.
The females of the African spurred tortoise lays eggs about a month after mating.
The price of a "African spurred tortoise" at the exotic animal market, bred in captivity, ranges between 100 – 150 EUR.
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A young woman "African spurred tortoise" (Geochelone sulcata) on his mother's shield |
Giant turtle (Geochelone sulcata) in the Guembeul reserve in Senegal |
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1. Grooved Tortoise, Sahel Tortoise, Tortue Sillonnรฉe (English).
2. Tortue ร รฉperons (French).
3. Spornschildkrรถte Centrochelys (German).
4. Tartaruga sulcata, Tartaruga-purgada africana (Portuguese).
5. Tortuga Sulcata, Tortuga gigante africana (espaรฑol).
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Two subspecies are recognized as valid, including nominate subspecies.
The Eastern mud turtle (Kinosternon subrubrum) found in the US states of Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Measure, New Jersey, New York City, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas y Virginia.
In Indiana, the Eastern mud turtle is listed as an endangered species.
The Eastern mud turtle it is a small species, with a carapace length of 7 to 10 cm for adults. The head is irregularly mottled or streaked with yellow. The shell is convex, yellow to black, and lacks a keel or distinctive pattern. The plastron is yellow to brown in color and may have a variable number of dark markings.. Sometimes they are confused with the Common musk turtle. But, the plastron of the Eastern mud turtle differs from that of Common musk turtle in that it has two hinges and a triangular-shaped pectoral shield. As well, Unlike in the Common musk turtle, he doesn't have two stripes on his face.
The sexes are similar in size. Males have a longer preanal length with the vent posterior to the edge of the carapace.. The youth of the Eastern mud turtle are darker in color, they lack head markings and their plastron is orange to red with a dark center.
The Eastern mud turtle it is semi-aquatic and prefers relatively calm and shallow bodies of water. wet meadows, ponds, swamps and drainage ditches are their typical habitats. in coastal areas, eastern mud turtles can tolerate brackish water and are found on the edges of mudflats and offshore islands. Although they do not sunbathe often, They are much more terrestrial than the Common musk turtle and can often be seen on land from spring through fall. They reach maturity between 4 and 8 years of age. Individuals in captivity have lived up to 38 years. The Eastern mud turtle feeds mainly on the bottom of the sea. Their diet consists of a variety of insects, mollusks, Tadpoles, crustaceans, carrion and aquatic vegetation.
The Eastern mud turtle it is swimming and lonely. They hibernate between November and March., but start and end times vary by location. The hibernaculum of these turtles includes shallow burrows at the edge of wetlands. They are crepuscular. Depending on ambient temperature, they spend their time submerged in shallow water or basking on the surface of the water. These tortoises can sunbathe with conspecifics on the same trunk, but this occurs mostly during the mating season.
These turtles are occasionally aggressive and fight each other with head-to-head confrontations.. Such clashes can lead to possible serious injury, such as limb amputation, but the motive for the attack is unknown. The Eastern mud turtle uses color perception to distinguish the sexes, what plays a role in courtship. when they mate, female musk glands release pheromones to signal males to initiate courtship. The females dig their nests and hide them using their front and hind legs., and then they lay their brood.
The Eastern mud turtle it is omnivorous and its diet is very varied. They feed mostly on the bottom., consuming mainly in the water, but sometimes they rise to the surface if the opportunity arises. Its range of consumption includes seeds, small invertebrates like earthworms (family Lumbricidae) and snails (Lymnaea, Physa, Planorbis), small insects like moths and butterflies (orden Lepidoptera ), june beetles (orden Coleoptera, familia Scarabaeidae, Melolonthinae subfamily), as well as arachnids (order Araneae), green algae, crustaceans and carrion. Strecker (1927) reported that these turtles also consumed a small striped snake (Tropidoclonion lineatum).
Mahmound (1967) investigated the diet Eastern mud turtle
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Minor Concern โ
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The Eastern mud turtle It is classified as a species of โLeast Concernโ according to the IUCN Red List.. They are not on the US federal list., CITES or listed by the state of Michigan. The Eastern mud turtle are considered endangered at the state level in Indiana, New York and Pennsylvania, and a species of greatest conservation need in Kentucky (Meshaka et al. 2017).
The main threat to these turtles is habitat loss and road mortality., since few turtles manage to cross them. Habitat loss through roads bisecting aquatic habitats, increased urbanization and climate change that raises sea levels harm these mud turtles. The illegal pet trade of this species has also caused damage to its native ecosystem through loss of biodiversity..
Potential conservation efforts to reduce mortality rates include wetland legislation that protects a terrestrial buffer zone around these semi-aquatic habitats. These terrestrial buffer zones are already intact in national parks. Future conservation efforts need a better understanding of population changes over time, as well as their perceived response to general climate change and microhabitat change.
The Eastern mud turtle They can reach a maximum carapace length of 12 cm.. So, they need an aquarium with a rim length of at least 80 cm.. For the benefit of Kinosternon subrubrum, the aquarium should have several hiding places and retreats. So, they need an aquarium with a rim length of at least 80 cm.. For the benefit of the Kinosternon subrubrum, the aquarium should have several hiding places and retreats. The roots, dense plantings of tanks and stone or rock structures are suitable for it. There should also be an integrated area for sunbathing
These turtles are solitary animals. Ideally, keep them individually in a species tank. Especially the males tend to be aggressive. In any case, must be stored separately.
The Eastern mud turtle feels very comfortable in water temperatures between 17 and 28 degrees Celsius. But, they need a fixed change between summer and winter. During the winter months you can reduce the lighting time and lower the water temperature to 10 – 17 Celsius degrees.
The Eastern mud turtle they are carnivorous. They prefer live food, frozen food or dried animals. The insects, the molluscs, amphibians or even plants are at the top of the menu.
The Eastern mud turtle (Kinosternon subrubrum) have already been successfully bred in the aquarium.
The prices of one "Eastern mud turtle" in the exotic animal market ranges from 50 – 100 EUR.
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HTTPS://www.YouTube.com/watch?v=U95SSLoQ4dk
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HTTPS://youtu.be/xnHl0EZqG9g
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1. Eastern mud turtle, Common mud turtle (English).
2. Cinosterne rougeรขtre (French).
3. Pennsylvania-Klappschildkrรถte, Kinosternon subrubrum, Mississippi-Schlammschildkrรถte, รstliche Klappschildkrรถte (German).
4. Tartaruga de barro comum, Tartaruga de barro orienta (Portuguese).
5. "Tortuga de pantano comรบn", Tortuga de pantano del este (espaรฑol).
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The Four-horned chameleon It was first described by the naturalist Gustav Tornier in 1899. There are three subspecies, including the nominal.
The Four-horned chameleon (Trioceros quadricornis) only found in some land areas of Cameroon and eastern Nigeria; its range includes the western highlands, the bamboo massif, Mount Manengouba, the oku massif, the Bakossi mountains, including Mount Kupe, and the Obudu Plateau in Nigeria. In particular, the subspecies Trioceros quadricornis eisentrauti is endemic to the Rumpi Hills in Cameroon.
Like many other chameleons, the Four-horned chameleon it has a prehensile tail and simple claws on its toes. Usually, has four protruding horns, but sometimes two with up to four adjacent reduced horns are present;adults usually grow to 25 to 35 cm long. The Four-horned chameleon male has a prominent hemipenal bulge and gular beard, while some females have a horn or even two horns at the tip of their snout.
In general, the Four-horned chameleon has a presence extension of 13.300 km2 and an inferred occupation area of 1.000 km2. The species is mainly associated with relatively intact montane forests with little human activity, where it has a relatively restricted elevation range (1150 to 2400 m). Research suggests this likely reflects competition with other chameleon species rather than physiological tolerances.. The type locality of the species is Monte Manegouba in Cameroon
The species feeds almost exclusively on arthropods..
Reproduction: puts up 14 eggs.
Incubation period between 130-160 days at 18-25ยฐC. Temperatures should not exceed 25ยฐC.
Life expectancy: a few 7 years.
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Vulnerable โ
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The main threat to this species is deforestation.. Agricultural development extends to the 1.700 m altitude near the village of Nsoung on Mount Manengouba, and the forest on the southeast slope of the mountain is rapidly disappearing. In 1995, forest degradation on the western slope of Mount Kupe had reached 1.200 m above sea level, due to selective logging for firewood and construction materials. So, future encroachment of human activities on the slope may pose a threat to this chameleon, which depends on a largely pristine forest and, therefore, likely to be at risk from forest degradation or clearing. Deforestation for cultivation and the burning of nearby grasslands to renew pasture for cattle threaten the species in much of its range..
Due to its small and fragmented distribution area and the numerous threats that weigh on the population, the Four-horned chameleon It is classified as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
Of the three subspecies, T. quadricornis quadricornis, T. quadricornis gracilior and T. quadricornis eisentrauti. The T. q. quadricornis is the most common, but the gracilior not uncommon. The T. quadricornis eisentrauti, on the other hand, not known (far as I know) that is in captive collections. It is even difficult to find images of the subspecies.
It is not a pet suitable for beginners.
terrarium size: individual storage is recommended. It is possible to keep the animals in pairs, but always pay attention to size and furnishings.
For single breeding: A terrarium of at least 100 x 60 x 120 cm..
The cages/flexarios they are just as suitable. Chameleons love fresh air..
During the day approx.. 20-25ยฐC, local heating up to approx.. 30-32ยฐC. Go down to at least 15ยฐC at night. Better still lower. If a cool cellar is available, you can also spend the night there.
The humidity in the terrarium should range between 80-100%. In the morning and evening, spray the terrarium with warm water. But, Please, do not spray the animal.
Daylight fluorescent tubes and/or light bulbs.
To obtain sufficient UV radiation, We use a solar light 75 watts for hobbyists. Get a surrounding heating of about 25-27 ยฐC and local heating up to 32 ยฐC at the highest point of the terrarium. In this case, an additional daylight lamp is not necessary..
For us, pine bark and forest leaves have given good results, but it can be terrarium sand… The 30% of the terrarium soil must be kept moist at all times. The leaves of the forest serve as living food. to the piglets, for example, they like to crawl under, the leaves are moved by the animals and the chameleon can naturally search and observe the prey and then hunt it on its own.
Lots of climbing opportunities, branches should not be too thick or slippery and should be easy to grip with feet.
Privacy screen for the rear and side walls. In summer, we take a flexo to the garden.
For planting we use Ficus benjamini and ivy, bamboo and, of course, a trough made by ourselves.
house crickets, mealybugs, cockroaches, two-spotted crickets, zophobas, meal worms, wax worms, etc.
In summer, they go to a secluded meadow armed with a net and collect everything that crawls and flies. But it's better to do without roadside critters. We don't want to poison it!
Regular mineral and vitamin supplements are also indispensable in this case.
They only eat fruits and vegetables to cover their water needs.
The sprayed and dripping leaves are gladly used as a water source.
These Cameroonian chameleons ultra rare they are highly prized within the reptile community for their incomparable horns, its high dorsal crest, its coloration and scarcity.
Its price in the exotic animal market is around 200 EUR.
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1. Four-horned chameleon, Eisentraut’s chameleon (English).
2. Camรฉlรฉon ร quatre cornes, Chamaeleo quadricornis (French).
3. Vierhรถrniges Chamรคleon, Eisentraut-Chamรคleon, Vierhornchamรคleon (German).
4. Camaleรฃo de quatro chifres, Camaleรฃo de Eisentraut (Portuguese).
5. "Camaleรณn de cuatro cuernos", Camaleรณn de Eisentraut, Camaleรณn cuadricorne (espaรฑol).
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The distribution area of the Boa imperator (Boa constrictor imperator) It is distributed on both coasts to the north of Mexico., throughout Central America (Honduras, Belice, Guatemala, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama) and in South America in the western Andes of Ecuador, Colombia and probably Peru.
It lives from sea level to 1000 m. In Ecuador it has been reported in the provinces of Esmeraldas, Manabi, The rivers, Guayas and El Oro.
The Boa imperator (Boa constrictor imperator) It's kind of powerful, with animals that live in both Central America and northern South America, so the appearance of this snake varies greatly depending on the specific locality. As one of the smallest Boa species, They have an average of 1,3 m and 2,5 m in length when fully adult, but it is known that they reach 3,7 m. They usually weigh around 6 kg, although females are significantly larger than males. The life expectancy in nature is about 20-30 years, but in captivity they can exceed 40.
Although the Boa imperator It has almost identical patterns to those of the Boa constrictor, this species usually has a darker tail, usually dark brown or very dark red. But, They are usually as colorful as their counterparts and, like the largest boas, can be bred in a variety of different colors, if the right conditions are given for its reproduction.
In particular, this species is one of only two snakes to have a confirmed XY sex chromosome system.
One population is found in the Cayos Cochinos off the north coast of Honduras.. These are naturally hypomelanistic, which means they have reduced melanin, so they are lighter in color, although they retain the distinctive darker tail that is characteristic of most members of this species. Tail color can vary from salmon pink to orange.
Another well-known population of Boa imperator is the Nicaraguan. Although not as small as the dwarf populations of the insular islands, adults are still smaller than the largest Boa constrictor constrictor. the size of a boa Nicaraguan mature female is from 1,1 m and 1,9 kg, while the female Boa constrictor constrictor, largest, is not mature until it reaches 1,6 m and 4,5 kg. Nicaraguan individuals typically have a compact saddle pattern on their backs that is often circular in shape. These boas have a reputation for being "biting", and some individuals are quick to bite in self defense.
Continental specimens from Colombia may be among the largest boas, but this subspecies also includes a number of dwarf island populations, like those of several Caribbean islands. These populations represent the smallest members of the species..
This snake mainly inhabits rainforests, although it can also be found in semi-arid areas of tropical dry forests, grasslands, semi-desert areas, tropical islands, agricultural land and plantations. It is usually found in open spaces, how clear, forest edges, rivers (both in the water and on beaches) and near human populations.
The Boa imperator is twilight and nocturnal. During the day it hides in caves, hollow trees or other shelters and only occasionally comes out to sunbathe. Juveniles spend most of their time on tree branches., while the adults, with increasing age and weight, They live almost exclusively on the ground.. But even here there are exceptions, for example, the Saint Lucian boa lives mainly in trees even as an adult. In general, the Boa imperator shows little need to move. An adult boa equipped with a transmitter in the wild moved only 135 meters in a period of twelve days.
Except for bugs and spiders, the Boa imperator eats all the animals it can handle in size, even hitting the little alligators. Usually, uses two different hunting methods: Either actively follows the scent trails of prey, or wait for the right moment as a hunter on the prowl. When the snake gets close enough to the prey by one of these methods, launches at lightning speed and then crushes the victim using the bonds of his muscular body. The dam is squeezed so tight that circulatory collapse occurs rather than death by suffocation, as previously thought. Depending on the size of the prey, This process can take up to 16 minutes and represents a considerable effort for the snake. To avoid wasting unnecessary energy, the snake senses the prey's heartbeat and stops the suffocation process as soon as cardiac arrest occurs.
A special hunting method has also been observed in young boas: They wag their tails like a worm and thus actively attract lizards.
Due to lack of field research, we have to draw on the experience gained from keeping these animals in terrariums. The corresponding activities -according to the subspecies- only take place in certain months. During these mating periods, the female secretes sexual attractants, that males actively follow. If the male then meets the female, scratches the flanks of it with its anal spurs until it finally raises its tail and allows penetration of the hemipenis. Courtship can last for weeks, and there are always several mating sessions, that can last several hours.
The Boa imperator gives birth to live young, that at birth are surrounded by a thin skin called the membrane or egg case. Between ovulation and birth there is an average of 120 to 150 days, and the moment of weaning the offspring is usually accompanied by rains. During and after the birth process, the female defends her young, and females have also been observed helping their young out of the egg membrane by nudging them or encouraging them to crawl. After birth, young snakes are fully grown and go foraging on their own.
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Minor Concern โ
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Hunting this species for its skins, meat and body parts, combined with active persecution and habitat loss have reduced populations of this species. In recent years, the number of hatcheries for its commercialization has increased..
Conservation status
The "Boa imperator" in a terrarium. |
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This giant non-venomous snake inhabits northern South America, Central America and southern Mexico. The climate there is subtropical to tropical., which is correspondingly warm and offers high humidity. Thus, for the keepers of this species of snake it is important that they reproduce well the climatic conditions of this region.
The Boa imperator is suitable as a beginner snake because it is quite robust against unfavorable weather conditions. But, this also has its limits. If the air in the terrarium is permanently too dry, this can lead to shedding problems. Normally, the snake should have no problem completely shedding its skin. If it happens several times that the remains of the skin stick to the body, then you should definitely check the weather in the terrarium.
Terrarium size requirements depend on the length of the animal. The following applies: length of the snake x 0.75m length and height of the terrarium, and the length of the snake x 0.5m for the width of the terrarium.
As in the natural environment of the Boa imperator there are only two seasons, one warm and humid and one cooler and drier, this should also be taken into account in the maintenance of the terrarium. No need to hibernate Boa imperator, but you can keep the terrarium temperature lower during the winter months and reduce feeding.
The temperature range must be in a range of 27 to 31 ยฐC. The ideal is that the temperature varies within the terrarium. There should be a humidity 65 to the 75%.
A wet box is recommended.
What substrate bark mulch can be used, sand or litter. If it is a young animal, climbing possibilities are very important.
The drinker should be large enough for the boa to lie on it without hindrance..
The Boa imperator, has a nocturnal lifestyle. Young boas are very good climbers and spend a lot of time in the trees.. This changes over time and the boa becomes predominantly terrestrial..
In the first years of life, the boa sheds its skin at short intervals and grows quite rapidly.
As far as possible, the snake should not eat any food before molting, as this could cause shedding problems. If the accommodation is too dry, shedding problems can also occur.
The boa usually seems somewhat clumsy and lazy, since she often sits in one place and doesn't move much. But one is surprised at the speed with which he can attack.
From my own experience, I can say that you have to be wary of this animal. If you feel threatened, can also attack unexpectedly. But, if you already have it controlled, it is very easy to handle and seems quite relaxed. Of course, each snake has a different character and this behavior cannot be generalized. But, if the boa is handled often and is used to humans, incidents are very rare.
What to avoid, However, is to approach the snake with your hand in front, because in this case she does not realize that the prey is too big for her. but like i said, once you have it in your hands, he will normally behave peacefully and even enjoy the warmth of your hands.
For someone looking for a calm snake that can be let loose in the living room without trying to hide in a crevice, this species is highly recommended, as it is still "smaller" compared to other boa species!! But, it must be taken into account that the Boa imperator will also reach a certain length.
Final size can also be strongly influenced by feeding., especially in the early years.
The choice of feeder depends on the size of the snake. Basically, it can be said that the food animal should be about the same diameter as the snake at the widest part of the body. If the snake has a diameter greater than that of a mouse, and there is no rat or anything else available, can directly feed two mice one after another. As with all snakes, young animals are more voracious and their metabolism is faster than that of adults, so you can feed them more often than once a week.
Rabbits are quite unsuitable for this snake, depending on the snake and rabbit specimen. Although boas can often eat animals three or four times larger than themselves, don't over do it. Remember that a snake digests against time. Anything that breaks down before being digested is regurgitated. This is not very tasty to see and above all to clean. By increasing the temperature in the terrarium, the decomposition process is correspondingly fast.
In its natural environment, the main diet of the boa consists of rodents and birds. But, also eats other mammals, lizards and frogs. Most of the time it stays in one place and waits for its prey., but if he has caught a scent he will also go hunting.
The Boa imperator kills its prey by strangling it. As such, is tied to the radius of curvature of its own spinal column when wrapped around the food animal. If the animal that serves it for food is smaller than the radius of curvature of its spine, then their prey can only be rendered unconscious. Imagine how heartbreaking it is to hear the snake's food animal begin to screech again.. Not to mention the internal injuries of the snake.
The Boa imperator it is a wild species, a specially protected species, an endangered species and a particularly dangerous animal. The possession of a Boa imperator may be subject to different requirements in different countries and states
In any case, you should obtain reliable information on whether the possession of the snake requires a permit in your municipality and under what conditions, or if there is an obligation to register. Unfortunately, often you have to ask from A to B, since many administration employees do not know where this information can be obtained.
The vet can also be a point of contact.
In case you save yourself the trouble of informing yourself, you run the risk of having the animal confiscated. Most likely, there will be more problems and non-negligible costs.
You can rarely buy one. Boa imperator in normal pet stores, but yes in the specialized ones. I don't think it's right that animals are bought by mail, although today it is also offered. You can also find reputable dealers and breeders at reptile shows, which are held from time to time even in small towns. The snake itself costs from a few 150 EUR.
But, the purchase of the terrarium is probably the biggest expense. This includes the terrarium, the heating, lighting, furniture and decoration, the humidification system (can also be a simple spray bottle) and lots of little items. Nor should running costs be swept under the rug.. Electricity costs for heating and lighting must be anticipated during the 24 hours of the day, as well as food expenses and occasional visits to the vet.
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1. Boa imperator, Boa constrictor imperator, Common boa, Northern boa, Colombian boa, Common northern boa (English).
2. Boa Constrictor Impรฉrator, Boa imperator (French).
3. Kaiserboa, Abgottschlange, Hog Island Boa (German).
4. Boa imperator, Boa constrictor imperator (Portuguese).
5. "Boa comรบn", Mazacuata, Limacoa, Culebra-venado, Bรฉcquer (espaรฑol).
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The Rice paddy snake (Hypsiscopus plumbea) it is one of the most widespread Asian water snakes. Previously it was called Enhydris plumbea, but the name was changed 2014.
In mainland Southeast Asia, the Rice paddy snake is present in Myanmar, Indochina (Cambodia, Laos, Viet Nam), Thailand and Peninsular Malaysia. out of region, found in parts of India (Islas Andaman) and south China (including Taiwan). In insular Southeast Asia it is present on the islands of Sumatra, Borneo, Java, Bali, Sulawesi and possibly on other islands further east.
Gray color on the upper part of his body, although in some populations its upper part can be olive gray, dark brown or green. There may be small dark spots along the vertebral line. Its underside is yellow, sometimes with black spots.
Its body is robust and cylindrical in section., its short head is barely wider than its body and its tail is short. His eyes are located on the top of his head.
The species usually inhabits calm or shallow bodies of water, like rice paddies, open swamps, bogs, streams and ditches.
The Rice paddy snake, mostly nocturnal, comes out at night to hunt fish and amphibians. They usually remain motionless in shallow stagnant water and also burrow into mud.. They also show a characteristic jump when trying to move quickly to escape.. They are quick to bite, starch, defecating and squirming excessively. They are not considered dangerous to humans.. They are slightly poisonous, but there are no known cases of poisoning or serious reactions in humans.
No known conservation issues. It is a common species in Thailand, although its population in Taiwan is in danger.
The Rice paddy snake attacks aggressively when cornered on the ground, but its small size prevents it from causing much damage. Although it's a snake with back fangs and some venom, the poison has a limited effect on humans, being able to cause some swelling in the worst cases.
The price of a "Rice paddy snake" at the exotic animal market, ranges between 80 – 100 EUR.
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1. Rice paddy snake, Rice paddy snake, Plumbeous water snake, Boieโs Mud Snake (English).
2. Serpent de riz paddy (French).
3. Reisfeldschlange, Plumbeรถse Wasserschlange (German).
4. Cobra arroz em casca, Serpente de รกgua plumbeous (Portuguese).
5. "Serpiente acuรกtica de vientre amarillo", Serpiente de arroz con cรกscara, Serpiente de agua plomiza, Serpiente del arroz, Serpiente de arrozal (espaรฑol).
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