so hey reptile lovers...

[Reka]

I am considering getting a snake or a gecko. My interests favor between a ball python or an albino leopard gecko.

I have looked up all the information I need on them, and I know how to take care of them. I was wondering what you guys think, if you could tell me anything useful, or help me narrow my choice down to which would be the best. I am kind of scared to get a snake bc they bite so much.

[Geel-Kajin]

I used to have a leapard gecko, and I highly recommend one.

Leapard geckos are tamer than most snakes, and better ones can sit on your hand for hours. Furthermore, they have simple tastes and don't require anything bigger than a worm or cricket, in comparison to the pinky mice some snake ear. However, they see things in a similar way to snakes, and can only prey on living insects. If you don't like touching insects, I suggest you don't buy either.

They need a dish of water next to them at all times, shallow but filled. Even though they are desert creatures, they still need water. They also need to be fed a minimum of 3 times a week. Leopard Geckos shed their skin, but will eat it afterwards as a snack. You can tell when they are going to shed by the duller, sandpaper look they take on.

In colder countries, a heater and UV light is required at one side of the cage, or alternatively you have to do what I did and bring him out into the sun for about half an hour every day. Leopard Geckos also need calcium in their water, to strengthen their bones. About a drop per dish should suffice. Sometimes, Geckos also like to eat a peeled pea, to help with their digestion. However, they are mainly carnivores.

However, they have their own problems. Too much inbreeding can result in stupid geckoes, who can't prey on their own. Instead, you have to "spoon-feed" them, feeding that over time you have to train them to open their mouth when you need to feed them, and not bite your fingers in the process. Leopard Geckos have small teeth, and their saliva can cause allergic reactions if it enters your skin, so wash it afterwards.