The five things to know about keeping reptiles as pets
By Katrina Warren|
Reptiles are becoming increasingly popular as pets.
They are relatively easy to look after once you have sorted the initial set-up and they don't make much noise, so the neighbours won't complain!?
But keeping an Australian reptile is a privilege, and they have specific requirements to give them a long and healthy life.
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Here are five things you should know about keeping reptiles as pets:
1. ?All native reptiles are protected, and keeping them is regulated across Australia state-by-state.
It is illegal to own exotic reptiles and you must not release an unwanted reptile. In most places, you will need a licence before you obtain a reptile, and annual reporting is required. Reptiles must come through a legitimate source, not be plucked from the wild or your garden, and there are constraints around what species can be kept.
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2. Reptiles live for a long time, so they are a big commitment.?
For example, a python may live for 15 years, and it's not uncommon for a blue-tongue lizard to live for 20 years. A turtle can live for more than 30 years.
3. Reptiles need specific housing.
Make sure to research the right sized house for their species - they will need the correct lighting and proper heating. The initial set-up could cost up to $750 to get it right.?
4. They have specific feeding requirements.
Different reptiles have different diets. For example, most lizards are omnivores and can eat a mix of meat, live insects, such as crickets, and veggies. Pythons will eat rodents (one every few weeks) and you can buy frozen stock - but the question is 'are you OK with keeping frozen rats or mice in your freezer?'?
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5. ?Reptiles carry salmonella in their intestines.
It is essential to always wash your hands after handling your reptile or their environment to avoid ingesting any contaminated faeces.
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