Help me decide what reptile!

[viaje]

I'm setting up a 18x18x24 Exo Terra vivarium that will have a false rock wall, small waterfall and pond, and probably be heavily planted -but I'm in the early stages of the build and haven't completely decided what the residents will be yet!

I was thinking dart frogs for a while, they are very cool, but after a lot of thinking I don't know if culturing fruit flies is something I want to be doing to feed the frogs.

I'm starting to lean towards a small arboreal snake, I've seen emerald tree boas kept in similar type cages and I'm wondering if anyone here (who's had experience with something like this) would have any opinions on what might do well in the tank. As of now since I'm still in the early stages I'll be able to set the tank up according to the temp and humidity that the animal would need. Although the humidity probably will stay reasonably high, since I have a small water feature.

So- what do you guys think would do well? I have some experience caring for snakes from a past job, but I've never personally had one so I don't know where to start! Have at it!

-Abby

 

[Jonas]

Emeralds are probably ruled out due to the size abnd shape of the cage.

I would recommend Agalychnis callidryas, they are really interesting animals. The size might be on the small side, but if it has to be snakes you might want to look into Corallus hortulanus, you have a great variety in their polymorphism.

I know it is late to say it as you allready have the cage, but in general it is never a great idéa to start in that end; to first get a cage and then try to fid an animal that fits it. Try to get an interest for a specific animal and then set up the cage for it, that will work better in the long run.

 

[jojackson]

Excellent advice Jonas !

 

[viaje]

Emeralds are probably ruled out due to the size abnd shape of the cage.

I would recommend Agalychnis callidryas, they are really interesting animals. The size might be on the small side, but if it has to be snakes you might want to look into Corallus hortulanus, you have a great variety in their polymorphism.

I know it is late to say it as you allready have the cage, but in general it is never a great idéa to start in that end; to first get a cage and then try to fid an animal that fits it. Try to get an interest for a specific animal and then set up the cage for it, that will work better in the long run.

Thanks for the suggestions!

I know that I'm supposed to pick the animal first, but I've had this exo terra just gathering dust for about a year now because Petsmart was clearancing them out a while ago to make room for the newer exo terras (the ones now that come with all sorts of crap) so I got it for $50. Couldn't pass that up! I've known for the entire time I've had it that it'll eventually be turned into a viv, and I honestly don't think I would care if I never got around to putting anything in it because it's turning out beautifully and I'll enjoy having it to look at and maintain. The thought of stocking it is just a plus!

I really love Corallus Hortulanus, and I'll look more into them!

 

[Jonas]

And, almost a given when you have a smaller terrarium collecting dust, Rieppeleon brevicaudatus is an excellent choise. A group of those will be a really great addition to a planted viv.

 

[Chameleonboy]

lol I knew it was you on the dart frog forum. I may be getting into the darts myself. I would go with the darts if I were you.

-Clemonde

 

[CHAMaDdIcT]

try considering day geckos ive always wanted one, and they have super bright colors ive heard the best to start off with are Gold Dust Day Geckos and Madagascar Giant Day Geckos