The Exotics Hub · Hull
Reptile Care Guides
Everything you need to know to keep your reptile healthy, happy, and thriving.
Start Right
Responsible Reptile Ownership
Keeping reptiles is deeply rewarding — but it is a serious, long-term commitment to a living animal with precise needs. The Exotics Hub is here to support keepers at every level, from first-time owners taking their first steps to experienced herpetologists refining advanced husbandry.
Before You Buy
- Research your species thoroughly before purchasing
- Ensure you can meet the animal’s full lifespan needs
- Source captive-bred animals where possible
- Set up the enclosure before the animal arrives
- Find a reptile-specialist vet in your area
- Never release non-native species into the wild
New to Reptiles?
Start with our beginner-friendly guides designed to walk you through the basics of reptile care. We recommend starting with easier species like Leopard Geckos, Bearded Dragons, or Corn Snakes.
Experienced Keeper?
Find in-depth care sheets, advanced husbandry tips, and species-specific information for more challenging reptiles.
The Fundamentals
Core Care Topics
Understanding these fundamentals will set you and your reptile up for success.
Enclosure Requirements
The right sized enclosure is essential. Too small causes stress; too large can make thermoregulation difficult. Always research the adult size of your species before purchasing a vivarium.
Heating
Reptiles are ectotherms — they rely on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature. Provide a thermal gradient with a warm side and a cool side so your animal can self-regulate.
Lighting
UVB lighting is essential for most diurnal reptiles to synthesise Vitamin D3 and metabolise calcium. Without it, metabolic bone disease is a serious risk. Nocturnal species may have different requirements.
Humidity
Correct humidity levels are vital for healthy sheds, respiratory health, and hydration. Tropical species need higher humidity; arid species need drier conditions. Use a digital hygrometer to monitor levels.
Feeding
A varied, nutritious diet is key. Insects should be gut-loaded before feeding and dusted with calcium and vitamin supplements. Always research the specific dietary needs of your species.
Substrate
Substrate affects humidity, hygiene, and enrichment. Avoid substrates that cause impaction (like loose sand for juveniles). Bioactive setups are increasingly popular for their naturalistic benefits.
General Care
Spot clean daily, deep clean regularly, and monitor your animal’s behaviour, weight, and appearance. Any changes may indicate illness — always consult a reptile-specialist vet promptly.
The Field Guide
Species Care Guides
Select a species below to read our detailed care guide.
Difficulty · Beginner
Bearded Dragon
Difficulty · Beginner
Leopard Gecko
Difficulty · Beginner
Corn Snake
Difficulty · Intermediate
Royal Python
Difficulty · Beginner
Crested Gecko
Difficulty · Intermediate
Blue-Tongued Skink
Advanced Husbandry
Advanced Reptile Care Guides
For keepers ready to progress beyond beginner species, these guides cover more demanding husbandry requirements and specialist handling considerations.
Difficulty · Advanced
Blood Python
A heavy-bodied constrictor demanding precise thermal gradients and a confident, considered handling approach.
Difficulty · Advanced
Green Tree Python
Arboreal and exacting in its humidity and perch requirements, best suited to experienced keepers with hands-off handling practice.
Difficulty · Advanced
False Water Cobra
A large, alert colubrid requiring secure, spacious housing and an experienced keeper comfortable with its defensive display.
Difficulty · Advanced
Chameleon
Sensitive to stress and precise in its environmental needs, chameleons call for meticulous attention to airflow, hydration, and UVB provision.
Difficulty · Advanced
Sulcata Tortoise
A long-lived giant tortoise requiring substantial outdoor space, robust grazing provision, and a genuine lifetime commitment.