Practical Reptile Keeping

Practical Reptile Keeping is the only monthly herp care magazine published in English. Launched in 2009, it attracts an international readership and is packed with advice on how to look after and breed snakes, lizards, tortoises, turtles, amphibians and bugs. As well as stunning photography, each issue features technical help, product information and health care advice to keep your animals in tip-top condition, plus breeding details and the latest news relating to this group of creatures from around the world.

Welcome

Recent finds reveal new species still await discovery • Featuring reports this month about just a few of the remarkable recent discoveries of new species of reptile and amphibian that have been made in countries around the world. New crocodiles recognised in Central America, stunning snakes from Asia, plus a colourful amphibian as well as previously unknown lizards from South America are amongst those featured here, along with the story behind the rediscovery of the world's largest known bee.

A stunning find

Researchers identify two new crocodile species

Dazzling new eyelash vipers discovered

Newly-discovered turtle faces extinction

World's biggest bee rediscovered

Fluorescent frog found

New stunning dragon-like lizard discovered

A NEW CROCODILE NEWT

Breeding Madagascan plated lizards • John Courteney-Smith, MRSB, FLS of Arcadia Reptile reports on a successful breeding with this species.

Why many pet tortoises are fed incorrectly • Now with tortoises awaking from their winter slumber, Will Gratton considers how we should be feeding them.

Starting with lizards

REPTILE FOCUS • Western spiny-tailed gecko (Diplodactylus (= Strophurus) spinigerus)

My top five kingsnakes • Experienced snake-keeper and breeder Timothy Zedi lists his five favourite species of kingsnake, focusing on their natural history, temperament, and husbandry needs, and highlighting their individual appeal.

Why herbivorous reptiles are rare • James Brereton MSc provides the answers to this and other associated puzzles about reptiles and their distributions today. He also examines the practical consequences of a diet of this type, in terms of the care requirements of such species.

Out of Africa Encounters with puff adders • Paul Donovan discusses the lifestyle and threat posed by Africa's most deadly snake.

New thoughts on planted vivariums Part Two • As one of the pioneers of naturalistic vivarium planting, Dr Jason Randall MSc has more experience than most in this area. Here he discusses the importance of the substrate and the planting scheme, to complete the build.

Avoid cross-contamination at all costs! • Are you inadvertently putting your reptiles’ health at risk? Peter Hawkins reveals the dangers to which you could be exposing your stock.

Practical Reptile Keeping