Do Reptiles Need Friends? Why Housing Together Can Be Risky
One of the most common beginner questions in reptile keeping is: “Can I keep two reptiles together? Won’t they be lonely otherwise?” While the idea of companionship sounds great to us, reptiles simply don’t see the world the way we do. In fact, housing reptiles together often causes more problems than benefits. Here’s why cohabitation can be risky and what you should do instead to keep your pets safe and happy.
Reptiles Aren’t Social Like We Are
Unlike dogs, rabbits, or parrots, reptiles brains aren’t hardwired for friendship. Most reptile species are solitary by nature and only come together for breeding (and even then it can end badly!). For them, sharing space isn’t comforting, it can feel like competition. Even if your reptiles don’t fight right away, the presence of another animal can be a constant source of stress.
I have personally attempted something that is deemed "probably safe" by many: cohabitating female crested geckos.
I did this with five groups of adult female crested geckos in large, neutral territory, bioactive enclosures with lots of hiding places and multiple food dishes. I put a 24/7 camera on each group to observe their behavior. Within the first several hours to the first night, I observed as every single group had issues with chasing, fighting, and bullying. I went in and separated all of the groups as soon as I noticed issues and unless I had been watching the cameras, you'd never be able to tell that some of the animals were picked on or bitten. Just because you don't see it happening or see wounds on any of the animals does NOT mean that it isn't happening.
It simply is not worth the risk for no benefit to the animal!
Territorial Aggression Is Common
Many reptiles are highly territorial. Bearded dragons, leopard geckos, and chameleons are well-known for showing dominance through head-bobbing, chasing, or outright fighting. Even species that seem “peaceful” can suddenly turn aggressive when resources like basking spots, food, or hiding places are on the line. Injuries such as tail loss, bite wounds, or even death can not be ruled out when reptiles are housed together.
Stress Is an Invisible Danger
Not all conflicts are dramatic. Sometimes, one reptile will quietly become dominant the other, preventing it from accessing adequate heat, UVB, food, water, or being able to peacefully rest. The submissive reptile may look fine at first but will slowly decline; losing weight, shedding poorly, or becoming ill. Because reptiles are masters at hiding weakness, keepers often don’t notice until the animal is already in serious trouble.
Health Risks Spread Quickly
Cohabitation also makes it easier for parasites or illnesses to spread. If one reptile has mites, respiratory infections, or internal parasites, the other will almost certainly get exposed.
In many cases, illnesses that could otherwise be fought off by a healthy reptile will infect a stressed reptile whose immune system has been compromised from high stress levels.
Pinworms are a common parasite passed from feeder insect to reptile. In normal amounts, pinworms are not harmful (and research shows potentially even beneficial!) to a reptile's system. However, high levels of stress allow pinworms to take advantage of a reptile's weakened system and then take over, which can cause serious illness if not addressed.
The Rare Exceptions
There are a few reptiles that can live together under the right circumstances. Some species of small geckos (like mourning geckos), garter snakes, or turtles may tolerate groups—but only if provided with a large habitat with multiple basking, feeding, and hiding zones. Even then, careful monitoring is needed, and the risks remain. For beginners, it’s safest to avoid cohabitation altogether.
What Reptiles Actually Need
Your reptile doesn’t need a “buddy.” What they do need is:
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A spacious, well-designed enclosure that allows natural behaviors.
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Proper lighting, heating, and humidity to match their species.
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Hides and enrichment like branches, plants, or climbing structures to keep them active and secure.
These things provide your reptile with safety, stimulation, and comfort—without the risks of unwanted “roommates.”
Reptiles don’t get lonely in the same way mammals or birds do. Housing them together can lead to stress, injury, or worse. If you want multiple reptiles (and lets be honest, who doesn't?!), the best option is always separate enclosures tailored to each species. That way, each pet thrives in its own space—and you get to enjoy more than one happy, healthy reptile!
