Reptile Myths That Just Won’t Die

Why these common misconceptions are still being spread, and what reptile keepers need to know instead!

Reptiles are wildly misunderstood creatures that often get a bad reputation. Between outdated care advice and viral misinformation, it’s no wonder new keepers can get confused about what’s true and what’s myth.

Let’s clear up some of the most stubborn reptile misconceptions once and for all.

🐍 Myth #1: “Reptiles don’t need much space.”

This one’s a classic—and completely false!

Most reptiles may not sprint around like dogs, but they still explore, climb, dig, and thermoregulate (move between different temperature zones).

In the wild many reptiles traverse large areas daily to find food, bask, and hide. Cramped enclosures limit natural behaviors, leading to stress, obesity, and even premature death.

Truth: Bigger is always better. A spacious, enriched enclosure lets your reptile act naturally, stay active, and live a longer, healthier life.
BUT Bigger is NOT better when the enclosure is full of empty space! Make sure to fill your reptile's enclosure with species appropriate opportunities to explore; climbing, digging, foraging, and hunting! 

🌡️ Myth #2: “Room temperature is fine for reptiles.”

Reptiles are "cold-blooded" ectothermic , meaning they rely on external heat sources to regulate body temperature. "Room Temperature" means something different for everyone. A more appropriate term for animals that are heat sensitive would be "temperate".

A common reptile that is advertised as a good candidate for being kept at "room temperature" is the crested gecko. 

While some families may set their thermostat to the recommended ~75-78ºƒ that a crested gecko prefers, some families may keep their houses 60-65ºƒ (too cold) or 80-85ºƒ (too hot) 

Truth: Every reptile needs a proper temperature gradient—a warm basking area and a cooler area to retreat—so that they can thermoregulate just like they would in the wild. Without that, digestion, immunity, and activity levels all suffer.
It is important to research the upper end of safety levels for your "room temperature" loving reptiles to ensure their enclosure is not exceeding safe levels, or dipping so low that your pet cannot properly digest their food. 

💧 Myth #3: “They don’t need water if they eat moist food.”

Even desert-dwelling reptiles need access to clean, fresh water. Dehydration is one of the most common (and preventable) health issues in captive reptiles.
Dehydration can cause numerous issues like impaction and organ failure. 

Truth: Always provide a shallow water dish and maintain appropriate humidity. Even species from arid regions, like bearded dragons, will drink opportunistically.

🦗 Myth #4: “You can feed them only one thing.”

Some keepers think their leopard gecko can live forever on mealworms or their iguana only needs lettuce—but reptiles (like all animals) require variety to thrive.

Truth: A balanced diet mimics what they’d find in nature; different insects, greens, or prey types. Rotating foods and using supplements ensures your reptile gets all the nutrients it needs! 
Oh, and don't forget to Gutload! 

🌿 Myth #5: “Decorations are just for looks.”

Plastic plants and hides aren’t “for you”—they’re essential for your reptile’s wellbeing. A bare setup leads to chronic stress, hiding behavior, and even health issues.

Truth: Enrichment isn’t optional. Naturalistic or bioactive setups give reptiles outlets to climb, burrow, and explore, which reduces stress and boosts activity levels.

💡 Myth #6: “Reptiles are low-maintenance pets.”

This one might be the biggest myth of all. Proper reptile care involves managing heat, humidity, diet, lighting, and enclosure cleanliness. 
While it is true that reptiles don't require the same emotional companionship that domesticated mammals do, they are much more complex when it comes to all of the nuances of their husbandry that you must maintain regularly!

Truth: Reptiles can be rewarding, but they’re not “set it and forget it” pets. Their needs are complex, and the best keepers are always learning, observing, and improving their care!

Reptile myths persist because old advice gets recycled faster than it can be corrected. But today’s reptile community is more informed and connected than ever before!

If you want your pet to thrive, stay curious, question outdated care sheets, and seek out credible sources. Every small myth we bust brings reptile keeping closer to what it should be: Natural, Humane, and Enriching for both keeper and animal!