I've been slowly researching in preparation for getting my first reptile, and I wanted opinions of MFK'ers what a good first reptile is that has alot of personality (and preferably has some cool colors). I'd like something that will at least spend a good amount of their development in a 20-30 gallon tank. To give an idea of my taste, right now my top pick is an amelinistic corn, but I'm not horribly educated in herps.
First reptile with personality
- Thread starter bl00
- Start date
For a first reptile I would suggest a Leopard Gecko first and for most. But then a Bearded dragon is always a good first. But for a 20 gallon I would only suggest the Leo.
I'm not sure if snakes have "a lot" of personality... most are relatively inactive, and really doesn't do much.
If you're looking for something a little more interactive, I'd go for a lizard, and of course the ever popular leopard gecko and bearded dragon are always favorite "beginner" reptiles.
I find that bearded dragons are a lot more interesting, they're not very jumpy or afraid of humans (generally speaking) even at a young age. they also eat anything you offer them, so food is very flexible... if you don't feel like running to the pet store for crickets, you can simply chop up some fruits already in your fridge.
I'm not saying that bearded dragons are very active animals that'll jump around the tank getting your attention, but certainly they're fun to play around with when you take them out. the way they tilt their head to look at you is very funny... at least to me.
When I worked at a pet store, handling the beard dragons is one of the highlights of my day. They're just great lizards, and they'll sit on your shoulder while you walk around working on whatever it is that you're doing. Leopard geckos probably won't do that. They're a lot more jumpy and won't stay in one place for extended periods of time.
When it comes to snakes, since that's what you had in mind, the only thing that really thrills me about snakes is feeding time. But that's about it.
If you're looking for something a little more interactive, I'd go for a lizard, and of course the ever popular leopard gecko and bearded dragon are always favorite "beginner" reptiles.
I find that bearded dragons are a lot more interesting, they're not very jumpy or afraid of humans (generally speaking) even at a young age. they also eat anything you offer them, so food is very flexible... if you don't feel like running to the pet store for crickets, you can simply chop up some fruits already in your fridge.
I'm not saying that bearded dragons are very active animals that'll jump around the tank getting your attention, but certainly they're fun to play around with when you take them out. the way they tilt their head to look at you is very funny... at least to me.
When I worked at a pet store, handling the beard dragons is one of the highlights of my day. They're just great lizards, and they'll sit on your shoulder while you walk around working on whatever it is that you're doing. Leopard geckos probably won't do that. They're a lot more jumpy and won't stay in one place for extended periods of time.
When it comes to snakes, since that's what you had in mind, the only thing that really thrills me about snakes is feeding time. But that's about it.
Leos can be jumpy but if worked with will calm down. Also aged leos are less jumpy then young ones. They are also personable and will respond to you when its feeding time. They beg like puppies.
Crested Geckos. I bought 3 in the last year and wish I had got them sooner. They're very chill and don't really seem to be bothered by being held every now and then. Cresteds come in wide variety of colors too. All 3 of mine are of different morphs. You could easily keep a pair in a 29 gallon aquarium.