10 best beginner reptiles and amphibians to take care of

Updated 15/11/2024

Thinking about welcoming a reptile as a pet? Great stuff - you’re probably on the lookout for beginner reptile pets, as looking after cold-blooded creatures can certainly be a challenge. 

Plus, caring for a reptile or amphibian incorrectly (even if it’s placing them in a tank that’s slightly too warm) can be fatal. So, stick with us as we explore the best beginner reptiles and the care they need.

10 best beginner reptiles and amphibians

• Leopard geckos
• Bearded dragons
• Crested geckos
• Ball pythons
• Corn snakes
• California kingsnakes
• Hognose snakes
• Tortoises
• Dwarf clawed frogs
• White tree frogs

Best beginner reptiles and amphibians (and why!)

It’s vital you choose the right reptile to look after. Having reptiles as pets should never be taken lightly - they require very specific care, and have a variety of needs that other pets don’t. 

But with proper care and attention to detail, having a reptile can be a joy and they can make for excellent pets. So without any further ado, explore the beginner reptile pets that are considered some of the easier reptiles and amphibians to care for below.

Leopard geckos

Background

Considered one of the friendliest gecko species for beginners, Leopard Geckos are one of the easiest reptiles to take care of due to their laid-back nature.

These geckos are crepuscular (active at dawn and dusk), and they’re used to the high temperatures of their native environment of the Middle East and South Asia, across India, Iraq, Iran, Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Personality

Leopard geckos are considered one of the best beginner reptile pets because they’re very docile in nature, and can be easy to handle with a little getting used to.

Habitat

Leopard geckos are used to dry, arid semi grasslands and sandy deserts, but tend to take shelter in their semi-damp burrows when the temperatures are at their highest.

Housing

Pet leopard geckos should have a minimum of a 10-gallon tank, but the tank you choose should be as large as possible, and contain absorbent substrate, a heat light and hides.

Diet and feeding

Leopard geckos should be fed a variety of live invertebrates, such as crickets (which should never be larger than your pet gecko’s head), beetles, mealworms, and sow bugs. Wax worms can be fed but are high in fat, so not in large quantities. And naturally, geckos require fresh water daily.

Temperature and humidity

Like many reptiles, leopard geckos need to move between different temperatures in their habitat to stay healthy. 

• Basking area: 86-90°F
• Warm hide: 82-86°F
• Cool end: 75–78°F
• Night temperature: 64°F minimum
• Humidity: 30–40%

Fun fact about Leopard Geckos

Leopard geckos don’t have eyelids, and instead have to lick their eyeballs to keep them clean.

Bearded dragons

Background

If you’re looking for kinds of pet lizards easy to care for, bearded dragons are one of the simplest reptiles to look after. With a bit of training, they can be good lizards for handling, and are considered low-maintenance reptiles. 

Personality

Of all the pet lizard breeds, bearded dragons are one of the best pet reptiles to handle, if that’s what you’re looking for. They’re docile and friendly in nature, which is why they’re one of the most popular pet reptiles.

Habitat

Despite being commonly bred in captivity, bearded dragons are originally from Australia, and are used to arid environments, tropical savannas, heathlands, and woodlands. This environment is easy enough to replicate at home, which is great news for you, as bearded dragons are considered one of the best beginner reptiles.

Housing

As a great beginner reptile pet, it’s simple to recreate the right environment for a pet bearded dragon to thrive. Juvenile bearded dragons will need a tank that’s a minimum of 20 gallons, and adults will need double that as they can grow up to around 45cm long. Line the base with substrate made of sand, paper towels or fertilizer-free topsoil, that encourages burrowing.

Diet and feeding

Bearded dragons are omnivores, and in the wild will eat a mixture of insects, small reptiles, small mammals and plants. Pet bearded dragons should be fed a mixture of live insects such as crickets, mealworms, wax worms, and plants such as bok choy, watercress, grated butternut squash, chicory, carrots, and apples.

Temperature and humidity

• Basking area: 100–110°F 
• Mid temperature: 80–99°F  
• Cool end: 71–78°F
• Night temperature: 68–71°F
• Humidity: 30-40%

Fun fact about bearded dragons

Bearded dragons can grow their teeth back! These reptiles have two groups of stem cells - special cells that can grow into a variety of other cells - and some of these help bearded dragons to regrow their teeth when needed.

Crested geckos

Background

Crested geckos are one of the best reptiles for beginners because they’re small in size, yet are marked with impressive colors and patterns. Interestingly, crested geckos were thought to be extinct until 1994, when a large population was found in New Caledonia.

Personality

Like bearded dragons, crested geckos are one of the best lizards for beginners because they’re docile and friendly. Crested geckos can be a little jumpy, so they’re not quite as easy to handle at first. With a little training and adjustment, they can generally be handled, but each should be treated on a case by case basis.

Habitat

Crested geckos are native to New Caledonia, so they are well adapted to humid and wet environments. Unlike other terrestrial geckos, crested geckos are arboreal, which means they tend to live in low trees and shrubs, rather than on the ground.

Housing

Adult crested geckos need a tank of 20 gallons and above, while juveniles need only around 10 gallons. As this gecko species tend to live in trees and shrubs in the wild, the tank needs to be tall with opportunities for climbing provided, such as branches and small trees.

Diet and feeding

Like other geckos, crested geckos are omnivores, so eat a mixture of insects and plants in the wild. Pet crested geckos are generally fed small crickets, locusts, and a variety of fruits and vegetables. There are various supplements available for crested geckos, but speak to your exotic veterinarian before introducing these into your gecko’s diet.

Crested geckos mostly drink from water collected on leaves and flowers so ensure that there are plenty of large leaves and plants (real or artificial) to catch water when the enclosure is sprayed. A small water bowl can also be offered. 

Temperature and humidity

• Basking area: 74-76°F
• Cool end: 70-75°F
• Night temperature: 65-72°F
• Humidity: 60-80%

It’s also worth noting that crested geckos are especially sensitive to high temperatures, so shouldn’t be exposed to anything on or above 80°F for long periods of time.

Fun fact about crested geckos

Crested geckos have toe pads complete with small ridges that help them to stick to surfaces when climbing - this adaptation allows them to climb on even vertical surfaces.

Ball pythons

Background

Ball pythons are considered one of the best pet snakes for beginners because they’re docile in nature and easy to look after. They’re generally medium-sized with relatively stocky bodies, and tend to be dark brown or black, with light brown or gold sides, and a cream underbelly.

Personality

Ball pythons are one of the easiest reptiles to care for because once into adulthood, they’re generally easy to handle (if they’ve been frequently handled in their formative years) and docile. Many can be shy, but with frequent exposure to their humans, ball pythons can be comfortable with handling.

Habitat

Ball pythons are originally from central and western Africa, amongst open forests, savannas and grasslands, living on the ground mostly, and sometimes in water.

Housing

The size of your ball python’s tank depends on their size and age, but generally it should be as big as possible, with many adult snakes requiring a tank of around 40 gallons. Like lizards, ball pythons require a layer of substrate on the bottom of their tank, made up of either paper, coconut husk or reptile carpet, topped with sphagnum moss.

Diet and feeding

Ball pythons are carnivores, so tend to consume rodents in the wild. The size of the prey should be no bigger than the size of the snake’s midsection, with pet juveniles being fed frozen rat pups or small mice, with the size of the prey growing as the snake does. They’re generally good beginner reptile pets, but you’ve got to be prepared to feed them the correct prey.

Temperature and humidity

• Basking area: 90-94°F
• Day temperature: 78-80°F
• Night temperature: 75-78°F
• Humidity: 50-60%

Fun fact about ball pythons

Ball pythons get their name from their well-known defense mechanism: to curl up into a ball when they’re feeling threatened, with their head in the center.

Corn snakes

Background

Corn snakes are great beginner reptiles as they’re non-venomous, docile and mild in temperament. They’re generally slender snakes, and are often orange with black stripes across their body.

Personality

Corn snakes are a popular choice for beginners because of their laid-back personality and even temperament.

Habitat

These beginner reptile pets are naturally found in the eastern United States in a variety of environments, such as overgrown fields, woodlots, and even abandoned buildings (when in search of prey). 

Housing

The corn snake’s housing size varies a lot from juvenile to adult, with young snakes needing a tank of up to 10 gallons, and adults 40 gallons. The corn snake’s tank should be big enough that they can completely stretch out, and complete with hiding places that help them to feel safe and secure, plants that help with moisture, and easy-to-clean substrate.

Diet and feeding

Like all snakes, corn snakes are carnivores, and tend to eat a mixture of insects, birds, mice, and rats in the wild. Captive corn snakes are mostly fed on mice, with other prey such as quail or rat for variation.

Temperature and humidity

• Basking area: 84-86°F
• Day temperature: 70-75°F
• Night temperature: 60-70°F
• Humidity: 60-70%

Fun fact about corn snakes

Corn snakes can recognize the smell of humans familiar to them, so if you choose to welcome a corn snake as a pet, they could well be aware of your presence, each and every time you enter the room.

California kingsnakes

Background

California kingsnakes are considered one of the best beginner reptiles, despite the fangs on the back of their jaw. With a docile nature, these snakes can usually be found in brown or black, with yellow or white stripes across their body. 

Personality

With regular handling from a young age, California kingsnakes can tolerate socialization, but they can bite if they feel threatened. So, if you welcome a California kingsnake into your life as a pet, get fully clued-up on how to properly socialize your snake.

Habitat

These constrictors are found along the west coast of North America, and are found across marshes, deserts, grasslands and woodlands. During the colder months, California kingsnakes go underground for hibernation.

Housing

California kingsnakes should be kept in a tank of up to 40 gallons, and the lid should always be fully secure - these snakes are excellent escape artists.

Diet and feeding

California kingsnakes feast on a wide variety of prey in the wild, including salamanders, lizards, frogs, rodents, birds, eggs, and even other snakes. Captive California kingsnakes are usually fed on rodents.

Temperature and humidity

• Basking area: 85-88°F
• Day temperature: 75-80°F
• Night temperature: 70-75°F
• Humidity: 40-60%

Fun fact about California kingsnakes

These constrictors get their name from the fact that they prey on other snakes - the king of the snakes, you could say.

Hognose snakes

Background

Hognose snakes are generally considered good beginner reptiles, but should be adopted with caution. These snakes have rear fangs that - when having been bitten - can cause a sting, much like a bee sting. With that said, they’re generally easy to look after.

Personality

Hognose snakes are generally considered good pet snakes for beginners - being docile most of the time. Unlike the other snakes we’ve recommended though, hognose snakes can be quite defensive - inflating or flattening themselves, striking, feigning a bite and playing dead when they feel threatened.

Habitat

Hognose snakes are originally found across eastern parts of North America and southern Canada, where they live in fields, coastal areas, farmland and soil.

Housing

Adult hognose snakes are pretty easy to care for reptiles, but do need specific housing. They should live in a tank of around 40 gallons, with a sealed lid to make sure the temperature and humidity remains constant. These snakes love to burrow, so it’s important to provide a deep layer of substrate (sandy soil works well).

Diet and feeding

In the wild, hognose snakes feast on toads (they’re immune to the toxin in toads’ glands), along with birds, insects, mice and rats. When feeding a pet hognose snake, pet parents tend to opt for small mice and baby rats.

Temperature and humidity

• Basking area: 85-95°F
• Day temperature: 70-75°F
• Night temperature: 70°F
• Humidity: 30-60%, depending on the type of hognose snake you adopt - speak to your veterinarian for a humidity recommendation specific to your snake.

Fun fact about hognose snakes

When hognose snakes are feeling threatened, shocked or alarmed, they inflate their bodies with air.

Tortoises

Background

Despite having lived alongside dinosaurs, tortoises can make great pets for beginners. They spend most of their time basking in the sun (or under a heat lamp), grazing on their food, digging through their substrate, or taking shade. However, due to their long lifespan, they are a serious commitment to take on. 

Personality

Depending on the tortoise species you opt for, tortoises can be shy, inquisitive and curious. While tortoises tend to be friendly animals, they generally prefer not to be handled.

Habitat

Tortoises are found across every major landmass, except from Australia and Antarctica. This migration has resulted in 49 different tortoise species, all of which are well adapted to their different environments. Tortoises around the world can be found in deserts, grasslands, savannas, woodlands and rocky hillsides.

Housing

A pet tortoise’s home will need to be at least six times the width and length of your tortoise, plus it’ll need to be complete with humidifying features and substrate that mimics their natural habitat. You should also invest in a lamp that emits UVB light - which is vital for the synthesis of vitamin D3 and temperature regulation.

Diet and feeding

Most tortoises are herbivores (According to the University of Illinois), so thrive off weeds, leaves, and herbs, plus a few fruits for an occasional treat.

Temperature and humidity

This ranges greatly depending on the tortoise species you choose, so check the correct basking, cool and night temperature, plus humidity levels with your exotic veterinarian.

Fun fact about tortoises

Tortoises can't swim, (apart from the Galapagos tortoise that can float due to its extra layer of buoyant blubber), but they absolutely love to bathe in shallow water.

Dwarf clawed frogs

Background

Growing up to just 2.5 inches in length, dwarf clawed frogs are a great choice if you’re a soon-to-be pet parent, and you like the idea of small amphibians or small reptile pets. However, they should not be handled much at all as they are adapted to live in water.

Personality

Dwarf clawed frogs are great beginner amphibian pets as they’re known for being peaceful in nature, and they’re often asleep in the daytime due to their nocturnal rhythm.

Habitat

Unlike many other frogs, dwarf clawed frogs are entirely aquatic, meaning they live entirely underwater, amongst fish in lakes, ponds, streams and wetlands all over the world.

Housing

Your dwarf clawed frog will need to live in a heated aquarium that’s got 3-5 gallons of water per frog, and is no deeper than 12 inches. Complete it with aquarium furniture near the water’s surface so that your frog can stop to eat.

Diet and feeding

In the wild, dwarf clawed frogs will eat a range of foods, including small fish, worms, crustaceans, aquatic insect larvae, and organic waste. For a pet dwarf clawed frog, many pet parents opt for a diet of frog pellets which sink to the bottom and can be retrieved by your pet.

Temperature 

75-80°F

Fun fact about dwarf clawed frogs

They’re social animals, and should be kept in aquariums with one or two other dwarf clawed frogs.

White tree frogs

Background

White tree frogs are nocturnal hunters, and can be found in green, blue or gray, and tend to have white bellies with large foot pads.

Personality

These make for great pets as they’re known for their laid back, relaxed nature.

Habitat

Originally from Australia and New Guinea, white tree frogs are found in forests, wetlands, swamps, old eucalyptus trees, and even some urban areas.

Housing

White tree frogs require around a 20 gallon tank that's fitted with a tight seal (to prevent any escape attempts), lots of opportunities to climb and a substrate that retains moisture.

Diet and feeding

In the wild, these frogs tend to feast on a range of insects, including slugs, moths, mealworms and earthworms. Insects for these frogs can be fed in captivity, too.

Temperature and humidity

• Basking area: 80°F
• Day temperature: 74-76°F
• Night temperature: 65-72°F
• Humidity: 50-60%

Fun fact about white tree frogs

Their nostrils and eyes sit on the top of their head, which means they can watch for predators while their bodies are hidden under water.

So, feeling set to welcome a beginner reptile pet (or amphibian) into your life? Great - just be sure to do your homework, making sure you’ve got your tank correctly set up with lighting and humidifiers before welcoming your new pet. And if you’re ever unsure on what to feed your new beginner reptile, speak to your exotic veterinarian who’ll be able to advise you.

Reptile care top tips

• Check they’re beginner-friendly. Being given the wrong temperature, humidity levels or food could be life-threatening, so do your research before welcoming a reptile or amphibian into your home.
• Research their natural habitat. This will help you to replicate it at home, and allow your reptile to thrive in an environment that feels comfortable to them.
• Speak to an exotic pet veterinarian for advice. Reptiles and amphibians need very specific care and attention, so ask a professional for advice if you’re unsure on anything.
• Get clued-up on diet. Reptiles and amphibians eat very specific diets, and aren’t always fed everyday, so be sure to do your research on your reptile’s diet before buying from your local pet store.
• Get the enclosure kitted out. Your reptile’s enclosure will need to be the correct temperature and humidity, plus you might need to provide shade and exposure to UVB. 
• Decide on vacation pet care. It’s all well and good providing the perfect pet care while you’re at home, but you’ll need to secure a reptile sitter to keep your pet safe and happy while you’re away - take a look below to find out how to connect with verified pet sitters.

Meet our veterinary expert, Lizzie

This article has been checked by veterinarian Lizzie Youens BSc (Hons) BVSc MRCVS. Lizzie graduated from the University of Bristol in 2011, and has been working in first opinion companion animal practice. She has worked in a variety of clinics across the UK, from large hospitals to small branch practices. She enjoys doing a mixture of medicine, surgery and emergency work. Lizzie currently works in a small rural practice where she enjoys working in a close-knit community. 

Useful resources

• How to care for a tortoise: the ultimate tortoise care guide
• What's the difference between reptile boarding and sitters?
• What does an exotic pet sitter do?