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Kylen
Student
Hemet, California
1
Question
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What’s the worst reptile to deal with?
In zoos, what is the worst reptile?
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Dr. Kelly Desso
Protective Services
256
Answers
Somers, Connecticut
Updated
Dr. Kelly’s Answer
I have owned various exotics for about 15 years of my adult life, and it is all about preference.
There are a few that I will not own as a pet- 1. anything venomous. I do not want to go through the certification to be able to own a venomous pet, nor do I want to risk any accidents. All it takes is the phone to ring, one misjudgment, or one distraction, and one is risking serious injury or death. To me, this is not fun. 2. While not venomous, male blue iguanas are on my "list" of no's. They are often aggressive when held or if their handler makes sudden movements. Far too many people I know who own them complain about bites, being tail slapped or otherwise. The males, in particular, have a territorial nature, which also never attracted me. By all means, I will never "fault" people who own or want to handle one. I would rather not own one. 3. Lastly, Tokay geckos. They are beautiful to look at, but have sharp teeth and bite. I'd rather enjoy looking at everyone else's than owning one.
There are a few that I will not own as a pet- 1. anything venomous. I do not want to go through the certification to be able to own a venomous pet, nor do I want to risk any accidents. All it takes is the phone to ring, one misjudgment, or one distraction, and one is risking serious injury or death. To me, this is not fun. 2. While not venomous, male blue iguanas are on my "list" of no's. They are often aggressive when held or if their handler makes sudden movements. Far too many people I know who own them complain about bites, being tail slapped or otherwise. The males, in particular, have a territorial nature, which also never attracted me. By all means, I will never "fault" people who own or want to handle one. I would rather not own one. 3. Lastly, Tokay geckos. They are beautiful to look at, but have sharp teeth and bite. I'd rather enjoy looking at everyone else's than owning one.
T.J. Worthy
Mentor
202
Answers
Ypsilanti, Michigan
Updated
T.J.’s Answer
Hello Kylen!
The reptile that might be the hardest to interact with are Thorny Devil Lizards.
Their feeding needs might feel demanding. Ants are the creatures they eat the most. In fact, they pretty much only eat ants, and consume a lot of them. Over 1,000 per day, reportedly! Here's some more information about them!
- Reptiles Cove: Is it Safe to Keep a Thorny Devil? | https://reptilescove.com/care/lizards/is-it-safe-to-keep-a-thorny-devil
- Active Wild: Thorny Devil Facts | https://www.activewild.com/thorny-devil-facts/
To learn more about the most difficult animals to take care of, see if you can reach out to Zookeepers at a zoo near you!
Generally, the hardest animal may depend on where they are. The environment will likely influence how animals live and behave. Local Zookeepers can give you a better idea of the reptiles where you live.
Enjoy learning more about reptiles! :)
The reptile that might be the hardest to interact with are Thorny Devil Lizards.
Their feeding needs might feel demanding. Ants are the creatures they eat the most. In fact, they pretty much only eat ants, and consume a lot of them. Over 1,000 per day, reportedly! Here's some more information about them!
- Reptiles Cove: Is it Safe to Keep a Thorny Devil? | https://reptilescove.com/care/lizards/is-it-safe-to-keep-a-thorny-devil
- Active Wild: Thorny Devil Facts | https://www.activewild.com/thorny-devil-facts/
To learn more about the most difficult animals to take care of, see if you can reach out to Zookeepers at a zoo near you!
Generally, the hardest animal may depend on where they are. The environment will likely influence how animals live and behave. Local Zookeepers can give you a better idea of the reptiles where you live.
Enjoy learning more about reptiles! :)