A turtle’s or tortoise’s shell, otherwise known as carapace (upper side of the shell) or plastron (bottom of the shell), is not just a covering but also a means of protection from predators. The shell is infused with nerves and blood vessels and acts as a shield to protect the turtle’s vital organs. If herp owners are diligent in carrying out proper shell care, this will contribute to the overall health of their pet turtles and tortoises. Being aware of common shell issues can help us decide on the best course of action to treat problems, and prevent them from happening.

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Meeting the nutritional needs of captive reptiles and amphibians can often be a challenge for many pet owners, both new and old in the ‘herp hobby’. This is because, in the wild, these animals are accustomed to a varied diet—having access to dozens of fruits, vegetables, and live prey, which all provide them with necessary nutrients. But in captivity, keepers find it hard to offer such a wide selection of nutritious food. So, supplements can be given to balancing out your pet’s diet where necessary.
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Some of you may be familiar with cuttlebones and its uses, especially if you own a pet bird or tortoise. You may have even seen one floating on the water in a terrapin’s enclosure, whether it is in a pet shop or your friend’s home. But if you didn’t already know about the usage of cuttlebones in pet ownership, this inexpensive item not only serves as a great supplement but also as an enrichment tool for some of your little critters!

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Importance Of Heat And Light In Captivity

Reptiles are ectothermic (cold-blooded), which means that they regulate their body temperature with help from external sources. It is therefore important to create a ‘temperature gradient’ in the enclosure through the use of heat fixtures, which enables reptiles to move around to find the temperature that suits them best—something they do instinctually in the wild.

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