Reptile Rookies: Your Ultimate Guide to Starting Strong
Volume 1 / Issue 2
SEPTEMBER 2024
Hello Recoil Uncaged Family,
Welcome to September, our special Beginner's Month! Whether you're just starting out in the reptile-keeping hobby or considering your first scaly friend, this month is all about you. We're excited to guide you through the basics, from choosing the right species to setting up your first enclosure. Reptile keeping is a rewarding journey, and we're here to ensure you start on the right foot. Dive into our tips, stories, and special offers designed to make your experience smooth and enjoyable.
Happy Herping!
Alan and Denise Britton
Owners, Recoil Reptiles Racks and Enclosures
“The beginning is the most important part of the work.”
― Plato, The Republic
New Breeder Spotlight:
From Captivation to Creation – Amber's Journey in the World of Ball Pythons
Amber Wheeler
Southern City Serpents
Noble, OK
Preferred Method of Contact:
Phone: 405-763-6103
Instagram: @southerncityserpents
Social Media:
Instagram: @southerncityserpents
Primary Reptile Species:
Ball Pythons
Years in the Hobby:
7 years
How did you start your journey in reptile keeping?
My journey into reptile keeping started when I was 16, glued to YouTube, watching all these amazing keepers and breeders showing off their collections. I was completely captivated by the incredible variety of species, morphs, and combos. Naturally, I begged my mom (who was definitely not a snake fan back then) to let me get one. She said no, of course, but I kept at it. By the time I was 18, I finally wore her down, and my first snake was a little corn snake. My mom could only handle so much at the time, but even then, I knew that wasn’t enough for me. Not long after, I managed to convince her to let me bring home my first Ball Python, a male genetic stripe.
What inspired you to specialize in your current area of expertise?
A close friend of mine, Schuyler, who was a breeder, played a huge role in inspiring me. We started as customer and seller, but our bond grew into a friendship that made me realize I wanted to do this—not just for myself but for others who share our passion. As my mom became more comfortable with the idea of having snakes around, my collection grew quickly. Most of my breeders came from Schuyler. With Ball Pythons being the majority of what I kept, I found myself wanting to hatch out the same amazing morphs I saw others creating—not to sell, but because I’m the kind of girl who just must have “one of those too!” Now, I’m here, ready to take things further and explore new possibilities in the hobby.
Can you share a memorable experience or story from your reptile-keeping career?
Since I’m still fairly new and haven’t attended too many shows, one of the most memorable things for me has been meeting genuinely good people who are in this hobby for the right reasons. Everyone has been so kind and welcoming, which has really helped ease my anxiety. It’s reassuring to know I’m surrounded by people I can trust. Also, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of hatching out something that was on my “I want that” list from 7 years ago. That’s been pretty incredible!
Any Tips/Advice for New Keepers?
This might sound a little wild, but if you’ve got the funds for an impulse buy and the commitment to care for that animal as long as you possibly can, I say go for it! Just make sure that if you don’t know much about the species you’re getting, you ask the breeder every question that pops into your mind. Trust me, most breeders don’t mind at all.
Are you curious to learn more about Amber's exciting breeding projects? Want to see what new and unique animals she has available? Or maybe you’re interested in following her journey and getting an insider's look at her collection? If so, be sure to follow her on Instagram @southerncityserpents, where she regularly shares updates, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and all things ball pythons!
Product Spotlight: Recoil Reptiles Starter Enclosure
Looking for the perfect starter enclosure for your Ball Python or Corn Snake? Our Recoil Reptiles Starter Enclosure is designed with beginners in mind.
Key Features:
Dimensions: 24" wide x 14" deep x 12" tall
Materials: Made from durable 1/2" PVC with a 1/4" acrylic fold-down door and a single latch
Included: Belly heat, LED light, and thermostat for optimal environment control
This compact and efficient setup is priced at just $200, offering everything you need to provide a comfortable and secure home for your reptile.
Why Corn Snakes Make Excellent Beginner Reptiles
When choosing your first reptile, it's essential to find a species that is not only fascinating but also easy to care for, manageable in size, and has a gentle temperament. The corn snake (Pantherophis guttatus), a species of North American rat snake in the family Colubridae, ticks all these boxes and more, making it one of the most popular choices for beginner reptile keepers.
1. Gentle Temperament
Corn snakes are known for their calm and docile nature, which makes them an excellent choice for someone new to handling reptiles. Unlike some other snake species that might be more defensive or prone to biting, corn snakes are generally tolerant of handling and rarely show aggression. While they have a few defense mechanisms like tail rattling, hissing, and mild bites, these behaviors are typically more of a bluff than a serious threat. If a corn snake does bite, it's usually a minor, harmless event—often compared to being bitten by “angry Velcro.” The teeth of a corn snake are very small, and the bite is far less painful than that of a rodent, kitten, or puppy.
2. Manageable Size
One of the key factors that make corn snakes ideal for beginners is their manageable size. Adult corn snakes typically grow to about 3-6 feet in length, with most individuals reaching around 4 feet and weighing up to 2 pounds (900 grams). This size is perfect for easy handling and housing, as it is neither too large to intimidate a new keeper nor too small to be fragile. Their moderate size also makes it easier to create a comfortable enclosure without needing a massive space.
3. Variety of Colors
Corn snakes are celebrated for their stunning variety of colors and patterns, which have been selectively bred over generations. From classic orange and red hues to more exotic morphs like albino, ghost, or even lavender, there's a corn snake to match anyone's aesthetic preference. This diversity not only adds to their appeal as pets but also provides an exciting opportunity for new keepers to learn about genetics and breeding.
4. Ease of Care
Corn snakes are hardy reptiles with straightforward care requirements, making them suitable for beginners. They thrive in a temperature range of 70-88 degrees Fahrenheit, which is easy to achieve and maintain in a typical household. They are also not overly demanding when it comes to humidity levels, and their diet primarily consists of appropriately sized rodents, which are readily available at most pet stores.
Setting up an enclosure for a corn snake is relatively simple. Since they are a species of rat snake, corn snakes are natural climbers and will use every inch of their enclosure if given the opportunity. Providing climbing branches, hides, and other forms of enrichment can help stimulate natural behaviors and keep your snake happy and healthy. However, they can also thrive in a more minimalistic setup if space or budget is a concern, demonstrating their adaptability.
5. Reliability as Eaters
One of the most reassuring aspects of keeping a corn snake is their reliability as eaters. Unlike some other snake species that can be finicky or prone to fasting, corn snakes are generally enthusiastic feeders. Once they are established in their new home, you’ll rarely encounter issues with them refusing food. This makes it easier for new keepers to ensure their pet is healthy and thriving.
Conclusion
Corn snakes are the perfect choice for anyone new to reptile keeping. Their gentle temperament, manageable size, stunning variety, ease of care, and reliable feeding habits make them an ideal starter snake. By choosing a corn snake, you are not only gaining a beautiful and fascinating pet but also taking your first steps into the rewarding world of reptile keeping with a species that will help build your confidence as a responsible and knowledgeable keeper.
Article and Photo Credit:
Written by Brad and Candice Palmer
Honor Reptiles
Contact: honorreptiles@gmail.com | Facebook and Instagram: @HonorReptiles
If you want to learn more about Honor Reptiles and stay updated on their latest projects, tips, and reptiles for sale, be sure to follow them on social media. Brad and Candice Palmer regularly share insights, photos, and exciting news on Facebook and Instagram at @HonorReptiles. Don’t miss out—join their community today!
Top 4 Best Reptiles for Beginners: Easy-to-Care-For Pets for New Keepers
Choosing the Best Beginner Reptile: A Guide for Novices
When selecting your first reptile, it's important to consider factors like ease of care, temperament, and the resources required. Here are four excellent options for beginners, along with their pros, cons, and care needs, they are listed no particular order:
1. Leopard Gecko
Pros:
Hardy and easy to care for
Small size, requiring less space
Docile and easy to handle
Cons:
Nocturnal, so they are most active at night
Requires live insects for feeding
Resources Needed:
Enclosure: 30x18x14 to 36x24x14 PVC Enclosure (20-gallon minimum)
Heating: Under-tank heater for belly heat
Diet: Daily feeding of live insects like crickets or mealworms
Accessories: Hides, shallow water dish, and calcium supplements
Expert Tip: Leopard geckos thrive in simple setups, making them ideal for beginners who want a manageable yet rewarding experience. Consistent care and a well-maintained environment will help them thrive.
2. Corn Snake
Pros:
Calm, easy to handle, and great for beginners
Variety of color morphs available
Simple feeding requirements with frozen-thawed rodents
Cons:
Skilled escape artists, requiring a secure enclosure
Regular handling is recommended to keep them docile
Resources Needed:
Enclosure: PVC enclosures sized from 24x14x12 to 36x24x14 for adults, with a secure door
Heating: Provide a temperature gradient with a heat source
Hides: Multiple hiding spots for security
Substrate: Aspen is a great option for burrowing
Diet: Feed frozen-thawed rodents every 7-10 days
Expert Tip: Corn snakes are forgiving of minor care mistakes, making them a perfect choice for first-time reptile keepers. Ensure their enclosure is escape-proof and handle them regularly to maintain their docile nature.
3. Ball Python
Pros:
Docile and easy to handle
Low-maintenance with weekly feeding
Wide variety of color morphs available
Cons:
Shy nature, often hides for long periods
Requires precise temperature and humidity control
Resources Needed:
Enclosure: 36x24x14 minimum, up to 48x24x24 for adults; smaller enclosures are better for babies to feel secure.
Environment: PVC enclosures recommended for maintaining proper humidity and temperature.
Hides: Provide plenty of hiding spots like caves and logs to reduce stress.
Heating: Thermostat-controlled heat source to maintain temperature gradients.
Humidity: Humid hide and appropriate substrate to ensure proper humidity levels.
Expert Tip: Ball pythons are known for their calm demeanor, making them an excellent choice for beginners who want a pet they can handle without much stress. Properly setting up their environment with adequate hiding spaces and controlled humidity will help them thrive.
4. Bearded Dragon
Pros:
Interactive, social, and easy to handle
Diurnal, active during the day
Omnivorous diet, including vegetables and insects
Cons:
Requires more space and UVB lighting
Higher upfront cost due to equipment needs
Resources Needed:
Enclosure: At least a 4x2x2 (120-gallon) enclosure for adults
Heating & Lighting: UVB lighting, basking spot, and heat source
Diet: Daily feeding of leafy greens, vegetables, and live insects
Accessories: Hides, climbing structures, and water dish
Daily Feeding: Bearded dragons require daily feeding, offering a mix of leafy greens, vegetables, and live insects.
Expert Tip: Adult bearded dragons need a spacious enclosure, such as a 4x2x2 PVC enclosure, equipped with proper lighting and heating to mimic their natural habitat. Regular interaction and proper care will ensure a happy, healthy pet.
Choosing the Best Beginner Reptile: Overview
This overview of Leopard Geckos, Corn Snakes, Bearded Dragons, and Ball Pythons provides a solid foundation for beginners, helping you point in the right direction as you choose your first reptile. However, it's crucial to continue your research and ensure you are fully prepared for the commitment of reptile care. Each species has specific needs, and thorough preparation will set you and your new pet up for success. For detailed care guides and additional resources, consider consulting reputable sources such as:
Reptiles Magazine: Features articles, care sheets, and expert advice on reptile husbandry.
Books:
"The Bearded Dragon Manual" by Philippe de Vosjoli
"Ball Python: The Essential Owner's Guide" by Tracy Bartlett
"Leopard Gecko: The Complete Owner's Guide" by Philippe de Vosjoli
"Corn Snakes: The Comprehensive Owner’s Guide" by Kathy Love and Bill Love
Local Herpetology Clubs and Reptile Expos: Great places to meet experienced keepers and gain hands-on advice.
Online Groups and Forums: Join reptile-keeping communities to learn from experienced keepers and ask questions.
Veterinarians Specializing in Reptiles: Essential for health-related questions and ensuring your pet's well-being.
By leveraging these resources, you can gain a deeper understanding of each species' specific requirements and ensure that you are well-prepared to provide a healthy, happy environment for your new reptile companion.
Tips and Tricks for Beginner Reptile Keepers
Start Simple: Choose a reptile with basic care needs like a Leopard Gecko, Corn Snake, or Ball Python. These species are hardy and forgiving for beginners.
Proper Enclosure Setup: Ensure your enclosure is the right size, has proper heating, lighting, and secure hiding spots. A well-maintained environment is key to your reptile's health.
Research and Learn: Educate yourself on your reptile's specific needs. Books, reputable websites, and experienced keepers are great resources.
Regular Monitoring: Keep an eye on temperature, humidity, and your reptile’s behavior. Early detection of issues is crucial.
Patience is Key: Reptiles can take time to adjust to new environments. Handle them gently and give them time to settle in.
Join a Community: Engage with online forums, local herpetology clubs, or social media groups to learn from other experienced reptile keepers.
Mark Your Calendar: Recoil Reptiles Upcoming Events for
September, October, and November!
Join us at these exciting reptile expos and shows where you can explore our latest products and meet the Recoil Reptiles team.
September:
September 7-8: NARBC - Dallas, TX
September 14-15: HERPS Exotic Reptile and Pet Show - Conroe, TX
September 21-22: Lone Star Reptile Expo - Amarillo, TX
October:
October 5-6: HERPS Exotic Reptile and Pet Show - Belton, TX
October 19-20: Lone Star Reptile Expo - North Richland Hills, TX
November:
November 9-10: NARBC - St. Louis, MO
November 23-24: HERPS Exotic Reptile and Pet Show - Denison, TX
For more details, visit the Recoil Reptiles Events Page.
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