A Large Selection of Reptiles in Albuquerque

Red Iguana ReptileThere is such a huge variety of reptiles from all over the world. There are so many different colors, shapes and sizes it’s no wonder these cold blooded animals get a lot of attention.

 

Things you need to know

Most importantly, they are cold blooded. Unlike humans and other mammals that make their own heat to keep a consistent body temperature, reptiles depend on their environmental conditions for warmth.

This is why basking is so important. In the wild a reptile would find a nice rock being warmed by the sun to sit out on to increase body temperature. In addition several species live in tropical areas of the world where they benefit from a more pleasant climate. In captivity we have to simulate this with a variety of products from heat bulbs to under tank heat mats.

Without a proper temperature a reptile cannot digest food properly, will become lethargic and start refusing food altogether. Proper temperature varies with every species; the experts at Clark’s can help you with more specific information.

Reptiles need UV rays

Most reptiles require UVA and UVB rays from the sun. UV lighting is essential for these animals to utilize the nutrients in their food and process vitamins. Food, substrate, humidity, and size of terrarium can vary dramatically based on the species you choose.

Reptile buyers checklist

Veiled Chameleon Hatchling ReptileThings to consider before bringing home a reptile;

  • What does it eat, and how frequently? Feeding can be difficult. Some species require live foods such as crickets, worms, mice or rats (all of which we sell). This could mean coming to pick up food fairly frequently. There are alternatives, some animals will take frozen rodents. Some species are herbivores and some can be fed a premixed diet.
  • Were will it live? When setting the terrarium up at home you will need electrical access. Another consideration would be to put the terrarium somewhere away from direct sunlight, although your reptile needs the benefits the sun provides. Direct sunlight through a window will not offer much UV light (the glass filters it out) and the heat is hard to monitor, control, and can be potentially deadly.
  • How big will it get? Check with a Clark’s expert to make sure you are getting an appropriate sized terrarium. Many of the animals you will see in our stores are juveniles, so when choosing an enclosure you want to take into account the adult size your reptile will reach. Some of the animals we sell will grow over 6 feet long. At that size it is best to have them in a custom-made enclosure.
  • What kind of care does it need? Some are very low maintenance, only requiring occasional feeding and bedding changes, while others will need daily feeding and care. Reptiles from tropical areas will typically need more attention. The humidity levels they require can be hard to maintain here in Albuquerque because we are in the desert.