Breeding

[Green_Snake]

It has always been my ambition to breed reptiles. However, my parents have put a limit on the number of reptiles I can have. For the longest time, it was my two snakes, but they eventually agreed to let me get my beardie. For a long time, I was interested in breeding leopard geckos, but my dad is freaked out by them (he loves all other reptiles and had lots of snakes as a kid ??????????). I think it might still be a possibility.

Right now, I am considering selling or giving away one of my snakes :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: , and getting either a female bearded dragon to possibly breed with my male, or getting a breeding pair of leopard geckos. I would just like to knowif you think one would be better for a novice breeder? I have done quite a bit of research regarding leopard gecko breeding, but still still have LOTS of research to do before I make a decision, so don't worry. I'm not rushing. I would just like some advice/ideas.
-Draba

 

[fallen_angel]

We had to make the same decision. We were looking for another beardie and were deciding on whether we should breed them or leopard geckos. We chose leos because after doing research on the beardies, we came to the conclusion that it was too complicated/too much work for us, as beginners to breeding. Leopard geckos, however, are great for someone new to breeding since it's relatively much easier.

If you decide on leos, refer to Albey's how to incubate page. It is step-by-step instructions on how to incubate your eggs for the most successful hatch rate. We followed the instructions exactly and have had 100% fertile eggs thus far this season (the only infertile ones we've had were infertile and bad from the moment they were laid). There is one questionable egg that we have, but it was questionable from the time I found it, and actually looks better since it's been in the incubator.

 

[david13]

LEOS ARE #1, no doubt. That is good to know that you are doing lots of research and stuff. good luck with your decision.

Welcome to GF also

 

[mynewturtle]

Beardies are a great starter pet, but not for breeding. Beardies lay clutches very high nmberd 15+. If your parents have a limit on the aount of reptiles you have I don't think they'd enjoy 20 dragons. Beardies also eat a lot as hatchlings usually around 35 appropriete crickets. 35x20=700 crickets a day, most dragon breeders breed roaches.

Just a few things to consider before breeding dragons, Crested geckos, African fat tail geckos. Both great other choices.

 

[david13]

I didn't really know how much work breeding BD were. So IMO, I would get a leo because they are very nice pets and very interesting, And you wouldn't have so many little bodies to take care of

 

[Mel&Keith]

The main thing you need to discuss with your parents is if they're going to cover the expense of an incubator, housing for the babies and vet bills. They will be all different sizes so you can't house them together. Ideally you would buy a rack or build one since Leos need under tank heat. The next thing to think about is where you're going to find homes for the babies.
Another gecko you might consider are Crested Geckos. A pair is more expensive initially but as long as the room they stay in stays below 80F and above 60F they don't need any heating, cooling, or lighting and the eggs can be incubated at room temperature so you wouldn't need an incubator. They produce as many young as Leos usually but can be housed in Critter Keepers.

There are definitely a lot of things to consider so it's a good thing that you're doing your research before you jump in!

 

[fallen_angel]

The main thing you need to discuss with your parents is if they're going to cover the expense of an incubator, housing for the babies and vet bills. They will be all different sizes so you can't house them together. Ideally you would buy a rack or build one since Leos need under tank heat. The next thing to think about is where you're going to find homes for the babies.

That is definitely the most important thing! :main_thumbsup:

 

[Green_Snake]

Yes. I will definitely inform my parents on that. I already have 2 snakes and 1 beardie, so thy kind of understand, but I know breeding is different.....