Breeds and species
Terrarium animals
Reptiles and amphibians for the terrarium – from leopard geckos and bearded dragons to tortoises, snakes and the axolotl. Learn their heating, lighting, space and feeding needs.
8 animals in this selection Each has a story.
Animal list
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Terrarium animals Leopard Gecko
Beginner The leopard gecko is one of the most recommended reptiles for beginners – calm, tolerant of handling, and it doesn't grow too large (roughly 18–25 cm, 50–80 g)… 15 – 20 yrsMini -
Terrarium animals Ball Python
Beginner The ball python is the most popular terrarium snake – calm, slow and rarely aggressive. When alarmed it curls into a tight ball, which is how it got its name. 20 – 30 yrsMedium -
Terrarium animals Bearded Dragon
Beginner The bearded dragon is the most popular terrarium lizard – active by day, placid and used to people. It does, however, need a large enclosure with strong UVB an… 8 – 12 yrsSmall -
Terrarium animals Crested Gecko
Beginner The crested gecko is a nocturnal arboreal climber from New Caledonia, 20–25 cm long including the tail. It is recognised by the eyelash-like skin crests above … 15 – 20 yrsSmall -
Terrarium animals Corn Snake
Beginner The corn snake (Pantherophis guttatus) is a non-venomous snake native to the southeastern United States, reaching 90-150 cm and living 15-23 years in captivity… 15 – 23 yrsSmall -
Terrarium animals Russian Tortoise
Beginner The Russian tortoise (Testudo horsfieldii), also called the steppe or Horsfield's tortoise, is a small tortoise from the steppe regions of Central Asia. Its sh… 40 – 50 yrsMini -
Terrarium animals Oriental Fire-Bellied Toad
Beginner The Oriental fire-bellied toad (Bombina orientalis) is a small, semi-aquatic amphibian from the forests and slow-moving waters of East Asia. Adults reach rough… 12 – 20 yrsMini -
Terrarium animals California Kingsnake
Beginner The California Kingsnake (Lampropeltis californiae) is a non-venomous snake native to the West Coast of North America, often sold under the loose trade name "C… 15 – 20 yrsMedium
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All animals in this selection are shown.
Which terrarium animal should you choose?
Do not choose by appearance alone. Temperament, size, activity level and daily care needs matter just as much.
Think about how much time you can spend on grooming, training, play and companionship. Beginners often do best with breeds whose needs are clear and manageable.
Be careful with broad health claims: some breeds may be more prone to certain issues, so speak with a veterinarian or a responsible breeder.
Frequently asked questions
Which terrarium animal is best for a beginner?
The leopard gecko and corn snake are considered the least demanding: calm, manageable in size and with clear heating and feeding needs.
Do reptiles need special lighting?
Most diurnal species, such as bearded dragons and tortoises, require UVB light to produce vitamin D3. Without it they develop metabolic bone disease.
How long do terrarium animals live?
Far longer than many expect: a ball python 20–30 years and tortoises well over 50. This is a decision measured in decades.