Reptiles are among the most commonly traded exotic pets, yet their complex environmental and behavioural needs are poorly understood by many owners and frequently unmet in captivity.
Reptiles have complex physiological needs including precise thermal gradients, appropriate humidity, UVB radiation, and species-specific enrichment. When these needs are unmet, animals experience chronic stress, immune compromise, metabolic bone disease, and shortened lives. The exotic pet trade also drives wild capture of species that are difficult or impossible to breed in captivity at scale. Improved owner education, better retail standards, and restrictions on the trade of wild-caught individuals would substantially improve welfare.