Practical Reptile Keeping

Practical Reptile Keeping is the only monthly herp care magazine published in English. Launched in 2009, it attracts an international readership and is packed with advice on how to look after and breed snakes, lizards, tortoises, turtles, amphibians and bugs. As well as stunning photography, each issue features technical help, product information and health care advice to keep your animals in tip-top condition, plus breeding details and the latest news relating to this group of creatures from around the world.

Welcome

The excitement surrounding new species is perhaps best encapulsated by this particular case • It’s easy to assume that there are few unknown species still to be discovered, but the reality of the situation is quite different. In fact, some scientists believe that there are more invertebrates still awaiting discovery than are already known, and as we push further into remote corners of the world, so many different new animals are being found. Here’s just a very small selection of some of the remarkable reptiles and amphibians that have become known to science over the past five years.

New European snake species recognised

New tree dragon discovered in Mexico

Cold-blooded tribute to veteran naturalist

New mini frogs found on Madagascar

Stunning new sea snake discovered

NEW IGUANA NEEDS PROTECTION

Three new species of tiny frog found in the Andes

Twenty-five new frogs found on Cameroon's Mount Oku

A previously unknown bent-toed gecko

New toads found in Nevada

Entering the world of blood pythons • If you are in search of a python that will not become a giant snake, but which still grows to an impressive size and has stunning colouration and patterning, then why not consider choosing a blood python? Enthusiast Tim Zedi describes how he keeps and breeds these highly attractive snakes, which, although probably not to be recommended for those starting out, are ideal for intermediate and advanced keepers.

When bluffing can be fatal • Professional herpetologist Paul Donovan, who lives in Zambia, looks at the meaning of behavioural warnings, in survival terms.

Understanding snake and spider phobias • Phobias about snakes and spiders in particular are widespread among the population, causing sufferers real fear. They can also have wider, serious implications as well, even compelling keepers of such creatures to choose between their pets and relationships. In this article, a practicing Cognitive Hypnotherapist with a particular expertise in this area explains the problem.

Caring for red-headed agamas

REPTILE FOCUS • Radiated tortoise (Astrochelys radiata)

The underrated uro • Did you know that there is a group of mainly African lizards, a number of which come in some of the most breathtaking colours in the reptile world? They are so beautiful that it looks as if Mother Nature and a rainbow tag-teamed up together to create them. Christian Castille talks with well-known agamid breeder Ben Warden to discuss the appeal of the uromastyx lizard.

Introducing the beautiful mantellas • While dart frogs may grab the headlines, there is another similar, very colourful and interesting group of small amphibians to be found halfway around the world. Joshua Ralph discusses mantellas and their care.

Mantellas

Live plants

Delving into the unknown • For many people, having pet reptiles that are easy to keep and can also be bred without difficulty make the hobby enjoyable. For me, however, I like to take on new challenges and hone my skills, discovering more about particular species, writes Christian Castille. Sometimes though, as in this case, the challenges can be very significant.

Invertebrates in harmony • Especially when limited by space, every invertebrate keeper is tempted by the...