People often think reptiles are easy pets to look after. This is true to some degree, but they have very specific needs. Some species are arboreal, which means that they naturally live in trees. Owners must attempt to recreate this environment in their domestic enclosures. Some reptile lovers especially choose arboreal species because they find them the most interesting.
With this in mind, let’s look at some of the most popular and fascinating arboreal pet reptiles now.
1. Crested Geckos Are Great for Beginners
Crested geckos are one of the most popular reptile species in the world. These small lizards have a cute appearance, and it’s relatively easy for new lizard owners to care for them. They adore climbing, so it’s necessary to have a high terrarium. It’s advisable to have a 20-gallon/60-cm tall enclosure for your crested gecko. This gives them enough space to run around. Remember, they also feel safer when they’re at a height. In the wild, they’d climb trees to escape from predators.
These geckos require humidity levels of 50 to 70%. New reptile owners should also be aware that they benefit from UVB lighting of about 5%. They don’t eat much, and if you must, they don’t object to necessary handling. Approach them gently and from the front, so they don’t mistake you for a predator. Crested geckos are available in many different colors and patterns.
2. Green Iguanas Thrive in Trees and Shrubs
Green iguanas are one of the most controversial reptiles on this list. These arboreal lizards are an invasive species in many American states, including Florida. However, it is possible to own an iguana in some areas, even if it is inadvisable. Iguanas have a strong self-defense drive, so they’re more aggressive than many other reptiles. They have sharp claws and can bite. Never capture a wild iguana because of the increased risk of salmonella and parasites.
Iguanas are very large lizards and can grow up to seven feet in length. They’re also very heavy with adults weighing 20 pounds. Owners should provide a 12x6x8 feet enclosure for an iguana. They’re an arboreal species and love basking on tree branches in temperatures of 95 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Water Dragons Offer a Safe Iguana Alternative
Water dragons are another large lizard but a safer alternative to iguanas. Different varieties hail from Australia and China. They are an arboreal species despite their name implying they only live in water. These lizards enjoy basking in trees. However, they are semi-aquatic and hold their breath for an hour. This omnivorous species will eat vegetables, but they also love critters, like grasshoppers. They require a big enclosure of about 6x3x6 feet with plenty of space to roam and climb.
These dragon lizards also need a decent-sized pool of water. They should be able to submerge at least half of their body. Remember to change this daily to prevent your water dragon from contracting illnesses. Water dragons require about 80% humidity. It’s relatively easy to care for them after the initial set-up, but it’s an expensive investment. This is something that many people underestimate, so do the numbers first!
4. Veiled Chameleons Suit Advanced Reptile Owners
Veiled or Yemen chameleons are another common lizard. This species hails from the Arabian Peninsula and spends most of its time in trees. Like most chameleons, they can change the color of their skin to blend in with their surroundings. This serves the dual purpose of keeping safe from predators while also hiding from prey. During the day, they’ll spend most of their time basking. Owners should provide UVF lighting with a temperature of 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
Most experienced reptile owners agree that while chameleons can make good pets, they’re not ideal for beginners. They have very specific requirements, and they don’t love handling. Veiled chameleons are better as display animals. Humidity should be between 70 and 80%. Remember to provide plenty of vegetation for them to hide in. This will make them feel happier and more at home in their enclosure.
5. Cuban False Chameleons Are Underrated Pets
As their name suggests, these lizards come from the rainforests of Cuba. They have very calm demeanors and make excellent pets for reptile lovers. A ridge of short spines runs down their backs while they have very large heads in proportion to their bodies. Technically, Cuban false chameleons aren’t chameleons. While they are a sedentary species, they do require room to move and climb. They live high in treetops so owners should fill the enclosure with plants and branches.
Cuban false chameleons require 13 hours of UVB lighting per day with a basking temperature of 90 degrees Fahrenheit. This can drop to about 72 degrees Fahrenheit at night. They also require an average humidity of 80%. Cuban false chameleons love eating slugs and snails. These critters should compromise most of the lizard’s diet to prevent common health problems that affect reptiles.
6. Green Tree Pythons LOVE Branches
Green tree pythons are one of the most popular arboreal snakes available. They’re so common that many reptile lovers even refer to them by their abbreviation “GTP”. Their vibrant color gives them their name as they cut a distinctive appearance. However, they don’t gain this shade until they’re about 12 months old. These pythons use their tails as a lure to attract prey. Then they swoop down and strike. They’re nocturnal animals and prefer to eat at night.
Typically, green tree pythons don’t enjoy owners handling them. They can be temperamental snakes, too. There are better options for new reptile owners like ball pythons. However, as arboreal snakes go, GTPs are one of the easiest to acquire. They can grow up to six feet long and weigh between three and four pounds. Green tree pythons may bite if they feel threatened, so take care. Their enclosure doesn’t have to be very high because they enjoy moving sideways through trees. Put plenty of loose branches and twigs on the floor of the enclosure to recreate a jungle environment.
