Reptile 101 — Field Notes
Honest field notes from three kids in Arcadia who actually keep reptiles — ball pythons, bearded dragons, and an alligator lizard between us. New articles weekly.
Is that snake in my backyard dangerous?
Almost every snake in the SGV is harmless. Gopher snakes look scary but they actually eat rats. The only venomous native snake in our area is the rattlesnake — and rattlesnakes don't chase people.
Read article →Field Note №02What's that lizard on my fence?
Probably a Western Fence Lizard or an alligator lizard. Both are good neighbors. Fence lizards may even help reduce Lyme disease risk in California — pretty cool for a backyard buddy.
Read article →Field Note №03Reptile myths, busted
Snakes aren't slimy (they're dry). Reptiles aren't dumb (they recognize their keepers). They aren't all dangerous — most are harmless and helpful.
Read article →Field Note №04Thinking of getting a reptile?
Beginner-friendly: leopard gecko, bearded dragon, corn snake. NOT beginner-friendly: green iguana, monitor lizards, hatchling tortoises. Do your homework first.
Read article →Field Note №05Why we care
Every reptile, captive or wild, deserves respect and understanding. They were here long before us — and we want to be the kind of keepers they deserve.
Read article →Field Note №06What do feeders actually eat?
Garbage in, garbage out. Our Dubias and superworms get fresh carrots, sweet potato, leafy greens, and oats every day — so when your reptile eats them, it's actually getting nutrients, not empty calories.
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