Captive reptiles have highly specific environmental requirements that are frequently misunderstood and inadequately provided.
Reptile welfare in captivity is frequently inadequate because owner understanding of their complex requirements is poor. Temperature gradients, appropriate UV-B lighting, humidity, substrate and social requirements are species-specific and demanding. Metabolic bone disease — painful and disabling — is the most common consequence of inadequate husbandry. Reptile pain and illness are easily missed because their behavioral indicators are subtle and owners are often unaware of what to look for.