Reptile Care Sheets & Resources

We know you love your pet! We have curated a collection of care guides and articles from trusted resources as well as collaboration pieces between experts and Zen Habitats to help you provide the best care possible. All content is for your information and benefit. When it comes to medical care, please see your vet.
Click on the species below to learn more about the animal as well as proper care and husbandry practices!

Ball Python Care Sheet provided by ReptiFiles

Ball pythons are a terrestrial species of constricting snake native to regions of eastern, central, and western Africa.

Bearded Dragon Care Sheet by ReptiFiles

Bearded dragons are lizards native to eastern and central Australia. They can be found in a variety of habitats,

Blue-tongued Skink Care Sheet provided by ReptiFiles

Blue-tongued skinks are a group of diurnal, terrestrial lizards found throughout Australia and parts of Indonesia.

Boa Care Sheet provided by ReptiFiles

Boas are a semi-arboreal species of constricting snake native to Central and South America. Boas are also known as “red-tailed boas” or “boa constrictors,

Chahoua Gecko Care Sheet Provided by Reptifiles

Chahoua geckos are a nocturnal, omnivorous, arboreal lizard native to the islands of Grande Terre and Isle of Pines in New Caledonia.

Chinese Water Dragon Care Sheet provided by ReptiFiles

Chinese water dragons are an arboreal lizard native to tropical broadleaf forests near freshwater lakes and streams. They are known for their stunning green color, and males are particularly striking, with a large crested head and spikes down the length of their spine.

Corn Snake Care Sheet provided by ReptiFiles

Corn snakes are a nonvenomous, terrestrial species of constricting snake native to the southeastern United States.

Crested Gecko Care Sheet provided by ReptiFiles

Crested geckos are an arboreal species of gecko native to New Caledonia, a group of islands between Fiji and Australia.

Hognose Snake Care Sheet provided by ReptiFiles

North American hognose snakes are fossorial (burrowing) colubrid snakes native to southern Canada, northern Mexico, and most of the United States.

King Snake Care Sheet Provided by Reptifiles

Kingsnakes are a nonvenomous, terrestrial species of snake native to many areas of North America, particularly in the United States and Mexico. There are many different types of kingsnake — about 45 recognized subspecies! They have been found in just about every type of environment, from swamps to grasslands, and are excellent climbers as well as swimmers.

Leopard Gecko Care Sheet provided by ReptiFiles

Leopard geckos are a crepuscular, ground-dwelling lizard native to semi-desert and arid grassland areas of Pakistan, Iraq, Afghanistan.

Panther Chameleon Care Sheet provided by Reptifiles

Panther chameleons are an arboreal species of chameleon native to forested areas in the northern third of Madagascar.

Uromastyx Care Sheet Provided by ReptiFiles

Uromastyx (also known as spiny-tailed lizards or dhabs) are a group of heat-loving, diurnal lizards native to North Africa and the Middle East.

Veiled Chameleon Care Sheet provided by Reptifiles

Veiled chameleons are an arboreal species of chameleon native to Yemen and southern Saudi Arabia.

Are Zen Habitats Enclosures Worth It?

Zen Habitats boasts a wide variety of products designed to meet the unique needs of a wide range of species; but are Zen Habitats worth the investment?

Bearded Dragon Hydration: What You Need to Know

Although there is a wealth of knowledge available on the internet on the care and husbandry of Bearded Dragons, one important topic is still under-explored: Bearded Dragon Hydration.

Weather, Fire, and Other Emergencies: Ensuring Your Reptiles’ Health

Take steps now to protect your reptiles during future emergency situations.

Ball Python Tips From Zen Animal Care Manager

Animal Care Manager Kasey includes the Ball Python on her list of favorite reptiles.

Bearded Dragon Complete Food Guide

Our complete food guide for a happy and healthy bearded dragon!

Bearded Dragon Complete Substrate Guide

Picking the right substrate for your bearded dragon doesn't have to be difficult!

Baby Bearded Dragon Care Guide

There are a few key differences between taking care of a baby and adult bearded dragon. This guide will help you prepare for your baby bearded dragon's new home!

How To Create A Bearded Dragon Bioactive Terrarium

This guide will tell you everything you need to know about creating a bioactive enclosure setup for your bearded dragon.

Bearded Dragon Solid Substrate Guide

A complete guide to creating a solid substrate for your bearded dragon!

Bearded Dragon Complete Lighting and Heating Guide

Lighting is essential to any reptile habitat. Our complete bearded dragon lighting and heating guide will help you prepare your setup for your reptile’s home.

Enriching Your Reptiles Life - Basics Of Providing Enrichment For Your Reptiles

There are many ways to provide enrichment for your reptile, this guide will show you how!

Easy DIY Reptile Enclosure Enrichment For Snakes

Re-create the DIY Snake Board seen in our Zenrichment video!

Basics of Providing Enrichment For Bearded Dragons

There are many great ways to enrich your bearded dragons life! This guide will show you how!

Basics of Providing Enrichment For Snakes

Our snake enrichment guide will provide you with easy ways to improve your pet's life!

Ball Python Complete Food Guide

Here is our complete food guide for Ball Pythons for a happy and healthy snake.

How To Provide Enrichment For A Variety of Reptile Species

Our list of enrichment ideas, will provide easy and affordable ways to enhance your reptiles habitat and reptiles life.

Using A Zen Habitats Enclosure To Build A Semi-Aquatic Turtle Habitat

Dubbed the “Zen-Quarium” we decided to create a semi-aquatic habitat for our new African Side Neck Turtle, Theo. This is how we built it!

Creating A Large, Enriching Ball Python Enclosure!

This is how we built a massive enclosure for our Ball Python!

A Black Reptile Enclosure Like Never Before | Zen Habitats Black Reptile Enclosures

You asked for it, and we listened; Black Zen Habitats Enclosures are finally here! We are sure there are a lot of questions surrounding our new black enclosures, which is why we are here to give you answers! 

Quality Accessories For Your Reptiles Terrarium | Zen Habitats

From hides with basking platforms, to enclosure mats and bioactive liners, Zen Habitats has a multitude of products designed to take your terrarium to the next level!

Building a Huge City For A Tokay Gecko - Tokay City! | Zen Habitats Enclosure Build

Check out this Tokay Gecko enclouse build! This city- themed Zen Habitats 2'x2'x4' Enclosure build is both unique and fun, but also quite naturalistic!

Why Zen Habitats Is the Only Reptile Enclosure You Will Need!

We are confident Zen Habitats is the only reptile enclosure you will need! Come check out why!

Ball Python Complete Substrate Guide

In this article, we will be comparing different options so you can decide which substrate is best for your Ball Python.

What Is Your Reptile Horoscope? | Zen Habitats

We’ve broken down the most common traits for each Zodiac sign and paired them with a species of reptile or amphibian that are a similar match! Check it out and see if you can spot any similarities between yourself and your match!

Answering The Most Asked Ball Python Questions! | Zen Habitats

If you are looking to take home a Ball Python or brush up on some knowledge of these slithery reptiles, here are some of the most common questions about Ball Pythons, answered.

Crested Gecko Complete Food Guide

What should you be feeding your Crested Gecko? Well... we broke everything down for you in this Complete Food Guide for Crested Geckos.

Answering The Most Asked Crested Gecko Questions

We have gathered some of the most common questions about Crested Geckos, for us to answer for you.

Crested Gecko Complete Lighting and Heating Guide

In this guide, we will break down everything you need to know about setting up your crested geckos lighting and heating in its reptile enclosure.

Crested Gecko Complete Substrate Guide

We will be covering several different substrate options to help you choose the best substrate for your Crested Gecko!

Answering The Most Asked Blue-Tongued Skink Questions | Zen Habitats

In this article, we will be covering some of the most common questions we received about Blue-Tongued Skinks!

Blue-Tongued Skink Complete Food Guide

In this guide, we will go over our top feeding suggestions and dietary needs for your Blue-Tongued Skink reptile.

Complete Guide To Gutloading Insects For Your Reptiles | Zen Habitats

In this guide, we'll provide you with all the information you need to know about feeding your reptiles, with healthy and nutritious bugs!

Blue-Tongued Skink Complete Substrate Guide

We will be covering several different, Blue-Tongued Skink substrate options to help you choose the best substrate for your Blue-Tongued Skink!

Blue-Tongued Skink Complete Lighting and Heating Guide

In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about lighting and heating your Blue-Tongued Skink's reptile enclosure.

Emerging Fungal, Parasitic, and Bacterial Reptile Diseases

New reptile diseases and classifications of illness are continually emerging. With that, a veterinarian's knowledge base is constantly growing as they learn more.

5 Famous Celebrities and Their Reptile Pets | Zen Habitats

Get ready to dive into the surprising world of celebrity reptile owners! You won't want to miss this one!

15 of the Most Colorful Reptiles in the World | That You Can Own as a Pet!

From colorful chameleons to stunning snakes, these creatures boast astonishing hues that will leave you in awe.

Baby Bearded Dragons | Top 5 Must Know Tips

Young reptiles require specific care to ensure their well-being and healthy development. Here are some essential tips to ensure the healthy growth and development of your baby bearded dragon!

Reptiles as Emotional Support Animals

Did you know that not only dogs and cats can be emotional support animals?

Northern Vs Indonesian Blue Tongue Skinks

Northern or Indonesian Blue Tongue Skinks? While they share some similarities, they also have notable differences. Let's explore seven key distinctions between these two remarkable species!

5 Reptiles That Can Be Housed In A 4x2x2 Enclosure

A 4x2x2 enclosure provides ample space and comfort for many commonly kept species of reptile. In this listicle, we'll explore five pet reptiles that would greatly benefit from a 4x2x2 enclosure!

5 Reptiles That Can Be Housed in a 2x2x4 Enclosure

When it comes to small arboreal reptiles, a 2x2x4 enclosure can provide a spacious and enriching environment for these 5 animals!

5 Reptiles That Can Be Housed in a 4x2x4 Enclosure

A 4x2x4 enclosure provides ample room for many small to medium snakes and lizards. In this listicle, we'll explore five magnificent creatures that would benefit from these spacious enclosures!

5 Reptiles That Can Live in a 2x2x2 Enclosure

Creating an optimal enclosure for even our smallest reptile companions is essential to their well-being. A 2x2x2 enclosure offers a compact yet comfortable space for these 5 small-sized animals!

Bearded Dragon Ultimate Shopping List

Whether you are bringing home a new bearded dragon, or looking to take your husbandry to the next level, we have compiled an ultimate shopping list to help you choose high-quality, reliable products for your scaly friend! 

5 Tortoises That Can Thrive in a Zen Habitat

In this listicle, we'll delve into five small tortoise species that are not only well-suited for Zen Habitats but also thrive in environments that can be expanded both in length and width as they grow!

Best Plants for Crested Gecko Bioactive Enclosure

Curating a bioactive enclosure is not just about the aesthetic appeal, but also about creating a nearly self-sustaining environment that also promotes the overall well-being of your animal. Here are the top five best plants to consider adding to your bioactive crested gecko enclosure!

Edible Flowers for Pet Reptiles!

Beyond feeding your reptile a variety of veggies and fruits, incorporating beautiful blossoms can offer both nutrition and enrichment for reptiles like bearded dragons and tortoises!

Benefits of Bioactive Enclosures

Bioactive enclosures have taken the reptile-keeping world by storm, offering a revolutionary approach that aims to mimic the natural environment, while providing a host of benefits for both pets and keepers alike!

Bearded Dragon Bioactive Enclosure Upgrade

At Zen Habitats, we decided to try our hands at creating arid bioactive setups for two of our female bearded dragons!

Building A Forest for Our Western Hognose!

We are building an enchanting forest themed bioactive enclosure for our Western Hognose Snake. Read on to find out how our enclosure build enriches the life of our hognose friend!

Creating a Garden-Themed Corn Snake Enclosure

Check out how our animal care manager Kasey created a natural Mid-Atlantic garden themed enclosure for our familiar reptilian neighbor, the corn snake!

5 Incredible Facts About Steve Irwin | Remembering The Crocodile Hunter

Steve Irwin, affectionately known as the "Crocodile Hunter," was a beloved Australian wildlife enthusiast. His infectious enthusiasm for wildlife conservation inspired countless young minds to form a lifelong passion for reptiles and wildlife.

Best Plants for Tegu Enclosures

Tegus are large, magnificent reptiles that require large, sturdy habitats to be successfully kept in captivity. One essential element in creating a natural, enriching tegu habitat is the inclusion of live plants!

5 Spooktacular Ways To Decorate Your Reptile Room For Halloween!

Transform your reptile room or reptile enclosures into a haunted haven with these five fun decorating ideas

5 of the Most Rare, Sought After Reptiles from Around the World

Reptile enthusiasts and collectors are always on the lookout for unique and rare specimens to add to their collections. In this listicle, we'll explore the top 5 sought-after rare reptiles that every herpetology aficionado dreams of owning.

Corn Snake Complete Food Guide

We'll cover everything you need to know about a Corn Snakes diet in this complete food guide.

Corn Snake Complete Lighting and Heating Guide

Our Corn Snake Lighting And Heating Guide will help you prepare your setup for your reptile’s home.

Corn Snake Complete Substrate Guide

In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about the pros and cons to choosing each type of substrate for a Corn Snake.

Answering The Most Asked Corn Snake Questions | Zen Habitats

In this article, we will be covering some of the most common Corn Snake questions we received!

Leopard Gecko Complete Food Guide

In this food guide, we'll be covering everything you need to know about feeding your Leopard Gecko a nutritious diet!

Leopard Gecko Complete Lighting and Heating Guide

In this guide, we will cover everything from lighting, to heating to UVB for Leopard Geckos.

Leopard Gecko Complete Substrate Guide

We will be covering several different Leopard Gecko substrate options to help you choose the best substrate for your Leopard Gecko!

Answering The Most Asked Leopard Gecko Questions | Zen Habitats

In this article, we'll explore some of the most commonly asked questions about Leopard Geckos.

Chinese Water Dragon Complete Food Guide

This guide will help ensure you are providing nutritional foods for your Chinese Water Dragon reptile.

Chinese Water Dragon Complete Substrate Guide

In this article we'll cover the best substrate options for Chinese Water Dragons. Emzotic also shares some tips for decorating your Chinese Water Dragon reptile terrarium.

Chinese Water Dragon Complete Lighting and Heating Guide

Our complete Chinese Water Dragon Lighting and Heating Guide will help you prepare your setup for your reptile’s new home.

Answering The Most Asked Chinese Water Dragon Questions | Zen Habitats

In this article, we will be covering some of the most common Chinese Water Dragon questions we received!

3 Simple Tips On Keeping Your Pet Snake Secure In A Zen Habitats Enclosure

In this article, we will explore how the Zen Habitats reptile enclosure utilizes several safety features that contribute to maintaining the security of your pet snake.

5 Safe Plants To Use In A Bearded Dragon Habitat

Here is a list of the 5 best live plants for Bearded Dragon terrariums, that are safe for your Bearded Dragon to eat!

5 Reptiles That Can Be Housed in a 4x2x2 Enclosure!

In this listicle, we'll explore five pet reptiles which would greatly benefit from a 4x2x2 enclosure!

3 Reptile Superfoods to Give Your Insect Loving Reptiles!

In this article, we'll explore three reptile superfoods: Dubia roaches, silkworms, and black soldier fly larvae.

10 Most Popular Ball Python Morphs!

Thousands of different ball python morphs exist on the market today! Let’s take a look at the top 10 most popular ball python morphs!

5 Reptiles That Can Live In a 48x24x16 Enclosure

In this listicle, we'll explore five captivating animals which would greatly benefit from a 48x24x16 enclosure!

Ball Python Ultimate Shopping List

Whether you are bringing home a new ball python, or looking to take your husbandry to the next level, we have compiled an ultimate shopping list to help you choose high-quality, reliable products for your scaly friend!

Crested Gecko Ultimate Shopping Guide

Whether you are a new crestie parent, or you are looking to give your crested gecko the best life - we have compiled a list of high-quality products that will enhance the life of your gecko so that they can thrive! 

Best Plants for Blue Tongue Skink Enclosures

Choosing which live plants to use for a blue tongue skink can be difficult, since skinks have a tendency to uproot live plants, often smashing and killing them.

Purposes of Reptile Skin and Scales Are More Than Skin Deep

Our knowledge of reptile skin and scales only scratches the surface for many of us. Their outer layering provides functionality and protection in numerous ways.

Your Healthy Snake

According to Kasey, Zen Habitats Animal Care Manager and Certified Veterinary Technician, you can observe your snake’s behavior, body condition, activity level, skin and shedding, and bowel movement and urination to monitor its overall health.

Snake Tips for New Owners

Getting your first snake can be daunting. You probably have questions. What kind of enclosure and accessories do I need to have for them? How do I take care of my pet?

Bearded Dragon Basics For New Owners

Getting your first reptile pet can be daunting. You probably have questions. What’s the right pet for me? What kind of enclosure and accessories do I need to have for them? How do I take care of my pet?

Beardie Tips From Zen Habitats Animal Care Manager

Animal Care Manager Kasey lists the beardie as one of her five favorite reptiles.

BeWild: Metabolic Bone Disease

Nicole D’Avignon is Co-Director, BeWild Exotic Animal Education and Rescue and an Exotic Species Specialist on her way to vet school, BeWild is one of the rescues supported by the Zen Habitats Reptile Relief program.

Kasey's Corner Q&A: Blue-Tongued Skinks

Kasey, Zen's Animal Care Manager and CVT, answers your questions about Blue-tongued Skinks including why they have blue tongues, of they are good for beginner reptile owners, and what their personalities are like!

Blue-tongued Skink is the Cheese

Lorelei, a friend of Zen Habitats, completely wins for having one of the best names we’ve heard of for a Blue-tongued skink, or any reptile for that matter.

Corn Snake Tips from Zen Animal Care Manager

Animal Care Manager Kasey includes the Corn Snake on her list of five favorite reptiles.

Getting a Corn Snake

Animal Care Manager Kasey includes the Corn Snake on her list of five favorite reptiles.

Crestie Tips from Zen Habitats Animal Care Manager

Animal Care Manager Kasey includes the Crested Gecko on her list of five favorite reptiles.

Chameleon Basics for New Owners

Getting your first reptile pet can be daunting. You probably have questions. What’s the right pet for me? What kind of enclosure and accessories do I need to have for them? How do I take care of my pet? Zen Habitats spoke with Tricia Koczor, one of our gurus and creator of Reptilian Garden on YouTube, about chameleons and what you need to know so your pet can be happy and healthy!

Kasey's Corner Q&A: Tegus and Their Care

Kasey, Zen Habitats Animal Care Manager and a certified veterinary technician, answers your questions about Tegus. Native to South America and Central America and growing as large as 4.5', Tegus are highly intelligent and inquisitive reptiles that are excellent pets that should be kept by experienced keepers. See Kasey answer these questions on YouTube!

5 Freedoms Every Reptile Needs

In a recent article, our friends at Reptiles Magazine highlighted freedoms that all our reptile friends deserve. The article discusses the importance of five things that ensure the well-being of reptiles and other animals, as recommended by the UK’s Farm Animal Welfare Council.

Crested Gecko Shedding and How To Help Your Gecko Shed!

We will be discussing the common causes of stuck shed, how you can safely help your gecko, and potential changes you can make to ensure your gecko will have a healthy shedding experience in the future.

Complete Humidity and Hydration Guide For Crested Geckos

We will be discussing how to make sure your Crested Geck gecko has a proper humidity cycle and more!

5 Reasons To Choose A Ball Python As A Reptile Pet

In this article, we'll explore five compelling reasons why Ball Pythons make such desirable reptile pets.

Your Healthy Turtle

According to Kasey, Zen Habitats Animal Care Manager and Certified Veterinary Technician, you can observe your turtle’s behavior, body condition, activity level, skin and shedding, and bowel movement and urination to monitor its overall health.

Five Cool Reptiles 

Our Animal Care Manager Kasey selected five reptiles she thinks are the coolest!

Zen Mat: Quick and Easy Cleaning 

There are many reasons to have a Zen Habitats Zen Mat. The fact that it’s incredibly easy to keep clean makes it a must have for your pet’s 4’x2’x2’ enclosure.

Getting a Ball Python

Animal Care Manager Kasey includes the Ball Python on her list of favorite reptiles.

Uromastyx Enclosures

Explore Zen Habitats uromastyx enclosures!

Chahoua Gecko Enclosures

Explore Zen Habitats chahoua gecko enclosures!

Crested Gecko Enclosures

Explore Zen Habitats crested gecko enclosures!

Hognose Snake Enclosures

Explore Zen Habitats hognose snake enclosures!

Leopard Gecko Enclosures

Explore Zen Habitats leopard gecko enclosures!

Panther Chameleon Enclosures

Explore Zen Habitats panther chameleon enclosures!

Veiled Chameleon Enclosures

Explore Zen Habitats veiled chameleon enclosures!

Blue-Tongued Skink Enclosures

Explore Zen Habitats blue-tongued skink enclosures!

Boa Enclosures

Explore Zen Habitats boa enclosures!

King Snake Enclosures

Explore Zen Habitats king snake enclosures!

Ball Python Enclosures

Explore Zen Habitats ball python enclosures!

Bearded Dragon Enclosures

Explore Zen Habitats bearded dragon enclosures!

Corn Snake Enclosures

Explore Zen Habitats corn snake enclosures!