If what you're looking for in a pet is companionship or amusement, then reptiles don't make good pets. If you're looking for a pet that you can stroke or handle, then reptiles are a bad idea.

Reptiles as pets are an unusual bunch. Unlike traditional pets such as cats and dogs, they don't require affection. They don't snuggle to you or seek your attention. You cannot expect a snake to be loyal to you or respond to you when you call its name. Some of them don't want to be touched or handled. However, if you are looking for a pet that is quiet and not messy, then reptiles make wonderful choice.

Keeping a reptile for pet is costly. Their environment and feeding requirements are very specific and very challenging to meet. Maintaining their controlled environment requires a lot of work and diligence on the part of the owner. They must be kept at appropriate humidity and temperature. It is an expensive specialist hobby and is, therefore, not for everyone.

If you're still interested in owning a reptile despite these disadvantages, there are plenty of beginner reptile pets. An example of a species that makes a good beginner is lizard gecko. Lizard geckos are small, easy to handle, and don't have specialized lighting needs. Corn snakes will also make good pets as they are docile, non-aggressive, and can tolerate a lot of handling. King snakes, blue-tongued skinks, leopard geckos, and bearded geckos are readily available on the market, too. These species are good-natured and easy to feed and house.