Reptiles can make fascinating pets — calm, quiet, and often less demanding than furry companions. But with so many species to choose from, which reptiles are best for beginners?

Here’s a guide to some of the most beginner-friendly reptiles, what makes them easy to care for, and what to consider before bringing one home.

1. Leopard Gecko

Why they’re great for beginners:

  • Hardy and tolerant of handling.
  • Simple diet of live insects (like crickets and mealworms).
  • No need for UVB lighting (though it can still be beneficial).

Basic care needs:

  • A 20-gallon tank with a heat mat for belly warmth.
  • Hides for security and a small moist box for shedding.

2. Corn Snake

Why they’re great for beginners:

  • Docile, easy to handle, and rarely aggressive.
  • Wide range of colours and patterns.
  • Straightforward feeding (frozen/thawed rodents).

Basic care needs:

  • A secure 20–40-gallon enclosure.
  • A warm basking area and cool hide for proper thermoregulation.

3. Bearded Dragon

Why they’re great for beginners:

  • Friendly, interactive, and often enjoy gentle handling.
  • Fascinating to watch — full of personality.
  • Omnivorous diet (insects + greens).

Basic care needs:

  • A large tank (at least 40 gallons).
  • Strong UVB lighting and a hot basking spot.

4. Crested Gecko

Why they’re great for beginners:

  • Can live happily in room temperatures (no extra heating needed in many homes).
  • Simple diet — commercial crested gecko food plus occasional insects.
  • Doesn’t require as much space as larger reptiles.

Basic care needs:

  • A vertical terrarium with lots of climbing branches and plants.
  • Humidity maintained with daily misting.

5. Russian Tortoise

Why they’re great for beginners:

  • Small for a tortoise species and hardy in the right conditions.
  • Primarily herbivorous (leafy greens and weeds).
  • Long lifespan (great for committed owners).

Basic care needs:

  • A large indoor or secure outdoor enclosure.
  • Strong UVB lighting and a dry, warm environment.

Things to Consider Before Getting a Reptile

  • Longevity: Some reptiles live 10–20+ years — be ready for the commitment.
  • Diet: Are you comfortable feeding live insects or rodents?
  • Costs: Enclosures, heating, and lighting can be expensive upfront.
  • Handling: Not all reptiles enjoy frequent handling — research species temperament.

The Right Reptile for You

Reptiles can be rewarding, low-noise pets — but they do have specific care needs. Choosing a beginner-friendly species is the first step to a successful reptile-keeping journey.

Want more? Stay tuned for our guides on reptile enclosure setups, feeding basics, and choosing the right heating and lighting.