So here’s the deal—about four years ago, I bought a 120x60x60 cm terrarium during a sale. The plan was to get a ball python, which kind of happened because my then-partner and I got a baby ball python together. However, things didn’t work out, and he ended up keeping the snake. So, for all this time, I’ve had this empty tank sitting around.
Now, up until now, getting a new pet wasn’t really an option because my sister has a phobia of anything involving dead mice or insects (pretty limiting for reptile care). BUT she’s moving out! Which means I finally have the freedom to bring home any animal I can properly care for that fits comfortably in the tank!
I’m planning on setting up the tank as semi-bioactive, meaning I’ll add some plants and isopods to create a self-sustaining environment before introducing any animal. The tank will be in a sunny spot, great for plant growth. I already have a heating pad that can warm up about half of the tank, providing a warm and cool hide, and I’ve got a humidity reader too.
Years ago, I was all about snakes and even had a few months of experience with that ball python, but now I’m more open to different kinds of pets. Back in the day, I also researched blue tongue skinks, and I loved their diet variety and the fact that they kind of look like zucchinis with legs!
Here’s the catch: I’d like to avoid animals that need crickets or roaches in their diet, as they freak me out too (just like my sister). But I’m totally fine with slugs, worms, and any type of insect that doesn’t hop or crawl around unpredictably.
So, what animal should I start obsessing over and studying the care of? I’m open to snakes, lizards, geckos, amphibians, etc. I’m still kind of a beginner, though, so I’d prefer to avoid species that might be too advanced for me. I want to make sure I’m fully ready to give my future pet the best care possible.