Whenever the word pet is mentioned, most people will think of cats and dogs. A handful will think of birds, fish, bunnies, and the lesser-known types of pets. But all around the world, there are so many types of animals that can be kept as pets.
If you guessed right, reptiles are one of them. Do you have a thing for reptiles, and you are wondering which one you can build a cage for without getting in trouble with the law? Well, if this sounds anything like you, here are six reptiles that you can legally own.
1. Snakes
Despite snakes seeming aggressive, some can be tamed and make the best pets. Stacey from Reptile.Guide says that ball pythons are notably among the best snake species for pets. They are small, clean, and low maintenance, plus they are cheap and convenient to feed.
With the right knowledge, snakes are easier taken care of than other domestic pets. Their movement is limited, and you cannot take a walk with it on the sidewalk. However, that does not mean that someone should not take care of them. They need that love as pets. You need to understand that snakes feed on flesh only, and if you cannot afford to feed your snake with meat, do not take him home because he could turn on you and bite you!
2. Turtles
Would you even argue that a turtle is not cute? Of all the reptile pets, turtles are the most desired pets. Moreover, when they feel safe and comfortable with a human, they are wholly receptive to interaction.
Learn how to pet your turtle, know where to touch and where to avoid. In line with that, learn how to handle the turtle by carrying it in the recommended way. Do not forget that the turtle skin may harbor salmonella bacteria on it, which puts the people around the animal at risk of catching salmonella.
On the dietary side of things, turtles have a high requirement for vitamin A. That means that they need to take a lot of leafy vegetables to avoid swollen eyelids. If you notice any changes in the turtle’s well-being, visit the veterinarian for medical attention.
3. Lizard
If you are keen, you will realize that lizards come in different species. However, there are several factors to consider when you are about to settle for a lizard as a pet. Keeping in mind that you have them as a pet, a reptile keeper’s license is not the only thing you’ll need. You have to give it a friendly environment compared to the wild. In addition to that, make sure you can give your reptile companion a proper diet, preferred lighting and temperature, safety, veterinary care, and above all, commit your time to take care of your reptile.
4. Gecko
Leopard geckos, aka Leos, are probably the easiest reptiles to care for at home. They do not require strict caging and are very easy to tame. Funny thing, we all know geckos for climbing walls, but these are exceptions. They are known for being very vocal, especially when they are hungry. They are lazy. They cannot bite, and they move very slowly.
Interestingly, geckos use their tails to communicate. Always be on the lookout for when your gecko gives you tail raises. For example, if she rattles the tip of her tail, she’s probably excited. A back and forth motion is a sign of danger.
5. Bearded Dragons
They are called bearded because of the pouch-like folds they have on their neck with spiny projections. They love to live around UV light, heat, and moisture. Unlike other lizards, these bearded reptiles won’t keep up at night, and they have an average life span of up to 13 years.
What makes this gecko more interesting is that they are friendly and interactive even to children. They love to be held and taken out of the cage regularly.
6. Chameleons
Chameleons are meant to live in the wild and on the trees. If you must adopt a chameleon, make sure you have enough space to accommodate the reptile and all its needs. Create a natural habitat to make it feel like it’s in the right place.
Provide branches in his cage and let him have proper ventilation. Besides, non-toxic foliage should be in the vicinity for a friendly environment, alongside insects, wax worms, crickets, and mealworms. Make time for your chameleon and take him for veterinary check-ups from time to time.
And there you have it! You have more than a few options of reptiles you can own legally. Just make sure you conduct research beforehand on how to ensure proper care for your reptile companion.