The study of reptiles and amphibians is called herpetology.  They have two characteristics in common – neither possess a backbone and they cannot maintain constant body temperature. 

These animals are kept in aquariums, terrariums, and vivariums.  An aquarium is a container filled with water for water animals, while the terrarium and vivarium are mainly dry habitats with localised free water aka herpetarium.

A vivarium should be simple and clean and made escape-proof.  They should also contain a source of heat.  The environment and seasons play an important part in reptile behaviour and habit. 

Interesting facts about snakes is that all snakes feed entirely on animal matter.  They can digest everything of an animal including the skeleton except hair, hoof, horns, claws, and feathers which are excreted in the form of a ‘felt’ mass as feces.  Their digestive enzymes only function in the animals' optimal temperature range.  Snakes do not urinate as we know it, they excrete a white cloacal excretion that is ammonium-acid urine. 

When a snake is ready to shed its skin it becomes dull and the eyes become opaque – and then they tend to shed in 10 days later.  However, it is very important that the humidity in the cages is optimal to allow them to shed their skins properly!

Most diseases seen in captive snakes come from their vivariums – the parasites breed in their feces and water.  Therefore it is very important to regularly clean their cages and wash their water sources.

The forked tongues of snakes are used as sensory organs to sample the environment.  When the tongue is placed back into the mouth, it comes in contact with their sensory organ of taste and smell. 

Snakes also do not have any eyelids! 

They have a ‘contact lens’ that protects their eyelid and is replaced each time they shed their skin.

For any further information please feel free to contact us on Facebook, Instagram, or Whatsapp!