Many of the reasons that they are such unique and sought-after pets are also what make them a challenge for many owners; their large size, long lifespan, and noise levels are certainly not for beginners. There are 17 different species of Macaws, some of which make better pets than others and others that are endangered and should not be kept as pets.

Parrot rescue organizations are often filled with Macaws because people want to own one of these gorgeous birds but do not realize the full weight of the responsibility and eventually cannot manage it. Macaws most definitely make great pets, but whether they are the right pet for you is another consideration altogether.

In this article, we look at the aspects that make Macaws such great pets and the more difficult traits to be aware of. Let’s dive in.

Why Macaws make great pets

Macaws are hugely popular pets among bird enthusiasts, and there are several reasons for this. There are quite a few species of Macaws that are commonly kept as pets, including:

• Blue and Gold Macaws
• Green-Wing Macaws
• Hyacinth Macaws
• Military Macaws
• Hahn’s Macaws
• Scarlet Macaws
• Various hybrid Macaws

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Let’s have a look at a few reasons that these birds make such great pets.

There is no denying the exotic beauty of a Macaw, no matter the species that you choose to keep as a pet. Blue and Gold Macaws are among the most popular, known for their beautiful blue-and-yellow plumage and affectionate relationships with their owners. Macaws can reach up to 3 feet tall, and they have large beaks and long tails and various striking color combinations. This is one of the main reasons that they are such popular pets — their appearance is simply unrivaled by other parrot species.

2.Affectionate

In the wild, Macaws are social birds that gather in flocks of 10 or more birds. When you keep a Macaw as a pet, you are now a vital member of their flock, and as such, they will develop a powerful bond with you. While they are wary of strangers and it’s unlikely that a Macaw that you’ve just met will want to cuddle up to you, they are almost puppy-like in affection with the people whom they know well. This is especially true if you’ve raised your Macaw from a young age, but even adopted adult Macaws will eventually warm up to their trusted companions.

Macaws typically mate for life, share their food with their mates and young, and have been shown to recognize their young and siblings and have long-term relationships with them.

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Most experts agree that Macaws are among the most intelligent parrots in the world, second only to African Greys. Macaws are logical and discerning birds — hiding their food and picking out seeds that they don’t enjoy — and they have even been shown to be creative and solve complex puzzles with ease. Experiments in IQ and EQ have shown that Macaws are on par with a 2-3-year-old human child, and Macaws are known to display both love and jealousy in the same way too.

Macaws are highly trainable, can be taught a wide variety of tricks, and can mimic dozens of words and phrases and other sounds, like laughing, ringing phones, and singing.

Macaws have long lifespans of 50-75 years, often even more than that, and many will outlive their owners. With the right diet, plenty of exercises, and a happy, peaceful environment, these birds are exceedingly healthy and rarely suffer from any major health issues.

The excitement of finding a perfect companion can be great when looking for a puppy, kitten or exotic animals and pets of a specific breed, and this makes people often turn to online sales sites. Surely you have observed that more and more people are opting to buy in an online pet store, and it is that it is a very interesting alternative that brings great benefits to the buyer, AnimalsSale.com is the website where you can buy or sell animals in the US, UK, Europe and other countries. You can find on their website full information about all dogs’ breeds, advice from experts on how to take care of puppies and kittens and other interesting information.

So here we are going to discover some of the most peculiarities of buying a pet from an online store. Featured.

Advantages of buying from a pet store

Today more and more people decide to have an animal in their family. For this reason, the opening of stores where they can buy any product or service dedicated to pets is becoming more and more frequent. According to some statistics, between 40% or 50% of families have a pet, so we must know well the offers in the market to be able to give our pets the best for their health and comfort.

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Immense variety in offers

These premises, often have a huge variety of items for pets. For this reason, we can use them to obtain bags of feed for dogs of different sizes, sweets, food products, clothes for dogs, toys, cages (in the case of rodents), etc.

Unlike shopping centres and supermarkets where we find a limited amount of items for our pets. In a pet store, we can find different things more specific to your needs.

In addition, there are also offers on pets and we can find a wide variety of animal species (if the establishment is a large company). In these places, the animals are usually kept in good condition and the employees are in charge of cleaning the cages daily.

Quality Products

Also, the advantage of buying in a specialized pet store is that we can find good quality products at their price. And it is that the prices themselves are usually quite accessible.

Quality is still an important detail when purchasing a product and/or service. In these places, there are usually articles of a quality more than enough to fulfil their function.

In addition, we have the products organized according to the type of pet and this helps to find what we need and more quickly. This saves time and unnecessary wandering in the store.

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Something important to note is that the products that are sold in specialized stores are usually from recognized brands and that they will also give us a guarantee. More if it is something that our pet has to ingest.

This really is important, because we cannot give anything to our pet. They could get sick if what they eat is in bad condition and if so, we must quickly claim it from the place of purchase. But in these places, the quality of the products is taken care of.

Preparedness for customer service

Another advantage is that we can have personalized attention based on our requests. There are always people around the premises who can guide us in our purchase and tell us which product suits us best for our needs.

This is extremely important since many times we can go to these stores and not be clear about what brand or what characteristics in the article can be better for our pet. This is a great advantage of buying from these stores.

Personnel in charge of customer service are often people who love animals and spend their time learning about pets. The best advice to buy is from people with a lot of experience.

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The post Do Macaws Make Great Pets? appeared first on The Petster.

In the Northeast, lobsters are pretty standard. You can find restaurants that serve them with just about any meal; even the fast-food joints have some sort of lobster offering in the spring and summer months. But some people choose to keep their lobsters out of the pot, and with good reason — these little guys make pretty quirky pets and aren’t much more challenging to care for than other marine crustaceans.

There are many different species of lobster, but there are only about four species that do well in a tank setting versus their natural habitat. These includes:

Debelius lobster is a colorful addition to the aquarium displays. It has a white to the lavender body, with orange and violet spots. Build the tank with a decent gravel bed to allow him to burrow in.

They also like hiding in rocks, so provide plenty of those. Hideouts are also crucial after molting because they feel a little unsafe and will need to hide away most of the time.

If you are shopping around for a more undersized lobster to flaunt in your marine aquarium, the feather star is something I would recommend. They don’t grow over 2 cm long. It can be uniform and varied from dark red, blackish-purple, orange, or brown.

But generally, the observed animals have longitudinal stripes whose thickness, number, and tint vary.

These are a bit small, growing only up to 5 inches long. They are predominant in North America where they are known to be extremely good survivors. With a pretty shallow pond that contains only a small amount of substrate to burrow in, you can keep red lobsters as pets. The tank setup should provide adequate room because these little crustaceans are very territorial.

According to Drs. Foster and Smith, try to aim for 40 gallons per red lobster to reduce fights and possible cannibalism. Provide enough rocks for the lobster to hide.

They have very long, thick, spiny antennae and lack chelae (claws) on the first four pairs of walking legs. These features distinguish them from common lobsters. The blue spiny lobster is also an exciting pick you could keep.

However, the feeding habits may be too demanding since they tend to feed endlessly as they grow (usually up to 24 inches long).

Keep in mind each type of lobster comes with its own set of requirements. Cold-water lobsters need a colder environment. Some need a lot of space. Some make a lot of waste. Some are going to eat every other animal you have in that tank. Do your research carefully before diving into keeping lobsters as pets.

Almost all lobsters need some elbow room. In short, lobsters will fight over space. If you plan on having more than 1, you’re going to need a more extensive, uh, tank. Drs. Foster & Smith recommend a tank no smaller than 50 gallons for one little red lobster. If you are thinking of getting pet lobsters, first, be sure you have the space for their tank setups. Lobsters are rarely cannibalistic in the wild, according to the Pictou-Antigonish Regional Library’s page on the American lobster. Only in captivity has this behavior been observed regularly. Any other animals in the tank are fair game for your lobsters, and that includes fish and shellfish.

Lobsters are not the type to pine away for a companion. In their natural habitat, lobsters tend to be solitary and prickly creatures. Even mating isn’t meant to last forever — just for a few days until the deed is done. Once the female has been fertilized, she moves on to allow her shell to harden (she molts just before mating) and lays her eggs while the male entertains other females in the area. If you want more than one lobster, try putting a mesh screen inside your tank. This way, you can keep the water temperature and pH levels the same but keep your lobsters separate.

Again, this varies between species of lobster. In the wild, lobsters eat a wide variety of sea life, including oysters, clams, mussels, fish, starfish, and more. So, for example, spiny lobsters — a popular tank species — need a combination of pellets and different types of seafood to survive. Pellets containing vegetation-type material can be purchased from local pet shops.

Not much is known about lobster longevity in captivity. In the wild, lobsters can live to be over 100 years old. One lobster got another chance at life due to his age: At 20 pounds, 140-year-old “George” was released into the wild after PETA pleaded on his behalf.

Most saltwater lobsters usually feed on crabs, small fish, and shrimp. However, if you are keeping a lobster pet, introduce food that sinks to the bottom of the tank where they like dwelling. Get the lobster freeze-dried brine shrimp, bloodworms, and tubifex worms. Sinking shrimp pellets are an excellent choice.

Some such as the cobalt blue lobster are scavengers and can feed on just about anything found at the bottom of the tank. Therefore, you can introduce any food remains, pellets, fish flakes, and live plants into the tank.

The general care guidelines may apply in most cases, but it is essential to dig deep and learn the specifics of each of these types of pet lobsters. Some species are seriously destructive and can quickly destroy anything and everything in the tank, including feeding on other small animals and fish you may have kept as tank mates. Setting up the tank will depend on the lobster you keep as your pet. If you choose the electric blue lobster, the aquarium will need fresh water. Most other lobsters are saltwater animals, so be careful not to mix up.

Create a lot of room in the tank since these little creatures are very territorial. They can easily turn cannibalistic if congested in the tank. Put plenty of rocks, plants, and three-sided objects in the tank. Crayfish and lobsters like to hide away from the light, so this will help them a lot.

A good amount of sand and gravel will also provide enough material for your pet lobster to burrow and hide under. Lobsters are escape artists, so ensure that you seal off any areas of the fish tank where they can escape from. Live plants may not survive for so long in the tank because the pet will eat them up. Turn the lights off because the little creatures are nocturnal and prefer to be active at night.

Tankmates can only include fast-moving fish. Your lobster will attempt to swipe at any fish or bottom dwellers, especially if they are slow-moving. If you want to keep several lobster pets, you may need to create a lot of space for their tanks. However, one tip I would recommend is to use a mesh screen in the tank to separate the inhabitants and prevent fights.

The lifespan of a lobster as a pet is not yet known, but some sources indicate that for European lobsters, the male ones live for about 34 years while female ones live up to 54 years. Other sources indicate that some species can live for as long as 100 years before dying.

There is no need for tank mates. Lobsters are loners and like to keep it that way. You can introduce a female lobster into the male’s tank once she molts. It is the only time she is ready to mate and fertilize her eggs. Once that is done, move her back to her tank to lay eggs and wait for her shell to harden again.

In addition, do plenty of research before you opt to keep a lobster as a pet. Each species may require different care methods, so generally, stuff may not apply to each one of them.

Lobsters are marine crustaceans that thrive in cold saltwater. Their meat is a delicacy, with global sales reaching nearly one billion dollars each year. Although most people like to buy fully cooked lobsters at restaurants, others prefer to cook lobsters at home after raising them in a tank.

You can keep lobster in a tank, but there are many rules to follow to keep them alive and healthy.

Set up the tank according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Paying close attention to setting up the tank will ensure a healthy environment for your lobsters for years to come.

In general, you will need a pump to circulate the water, a refrigeration unit to keep the water at 40 to 45 degrees Fahrenheit, a filter to remove insoluble matter from the tank through the use of carbon bags, and a bio-wheel to remove ammonia and nitrate, harmful substances that can kill lobsters.

The post Want a Pet Lobster at Home? appeared first on The Petster.

Minks and ferrets are both adorable Mustelidae weasels. However, although minks are classified as members of both the Neogale and Mustela genera, ferrets are classified as subspecies of Mustela. In addition, there are some other significant differences between the two mustelids.

If you want to keep one of these ferrets as a pet, you need to be sure it is a European polecat (Mustela putorius). Minks are too wild to be kept as pets, despite their role in rat control. European minks (Mustela lutreola) are far more closely related to polecats. They also have substantial differences in terms of appearance and behavioral patterns. They have a lot of differences. Let’s go over them all below.

Minks and ferrets have remarkable similarities in appearance due to their shared mammalian ancestry. Both mammals are pretty slender, with little round ears and pointed sharp teeth. Additionally, both also have short fur and relatively lengthy tails.

Ferrets and minks are different in size. On average, ferrets can be about 20 inches long (not including their tail). Wild minks can reach 23 inches in length, but farm-bred minks only get 19.5 inches. In terms of weight, ferrets vary from 1.5 to 4.5 pounds, while minks vary from 2 to 7 pounds in the wild.

Minks have a gleaming goat coat. Short, soft skins are also found on ferrets, but they are much less shiny. But the coats are very similar in color. Their coats are usually dark brown or black; however, some are white with markings.

Due to competition for resources, predators, or other circumstances, minks in the wild often survive only three to four years. On the other hand, Minks typically survive up to 10 years in captivity with good care.

Ferrets have shorter lifespans than minks in both wild and captivity environments. Ferrets usually survive between one and three years in the wild. However, ferrets generally survive 4–6 years in captivity with good care.

Minks are significantly wilder and less domesticated than ferrets. Minks can even be harmful if you don’t know how to manage them and don’t begin training them while they are very young. On the other hand, Minks may be fun for experienced exotic pet owners.

Minks, on the other hand, are natural wild predators. They can kill animals considerably more significantly than themselves and should thus be kept away from other domestic pets such as fish, rats, rabbits, and even small dogs.

Minks have muscular jaws and sharp teeth. They are notorious for not letting go when they bite something and will nip if they feel threatened. They should also be kept away from little children, especially unsupervised.

Because minks can be extremely dangerous as pets, many states in the United States require a special permit to keep them as a pet. Therefore, before taking one into your home, you should check your local laws and regulations.

Ferrets have a better temperament and can be trained easily. Ferrets are intelligent and curious creatures, and with enough patience and consistency, you can learn your Ferret using a litter box or perform a variety of other activities. When training your Ferret, consider that they typically respond positively to a performance appraisal than a punishment.

When it comes to suitability, ferrets are excellent pets for both individuals and families. They will like socializing with other ferrets and domestic pets such as cats and dogs. Your Ferret will also enjoy dating others, which will amuse your guests. While you should still take precautions, you do not need the same experience with a ferret as you do with a mink.

Minks are a highly energetic species. Minks prefer to run and hunt outdoors, requiring many areas to explore and objects to play with within captivity. When your Mink is small, you can choose a multi-level ferret cage; but as your Mink matures, you will likely want to change to a larger enclosure.

As semi-aquatic animals, minks require access to water where they can swim. Additionally, it would help if you gave enough time for your Mink to move outside of the enclosure. Additionally, you’ll want to engage your Mink in activities that match its natural habitat.

Remember that minks are intelligent creatures while planning the enclosure for your pet. The minks can escape even from the most secure of cages. It means that you must take extra precautions to keep them enclosed.

A ferret will be comfortable in terms of enclosure space, especially when you can give him as much as a mink would need. The minimum dimensions of the enclosure must be 18 inches in height and 24 inches in width. One Ferret usually needs a cage of at least six cubic feet.

Ferret cages are often available locally or in online pet stores. However, always keep in mind that ferrets have incredibly sharp teeth and may attempt to chew their way to break out of a cage if not careful. As a result, it is preferable to use a metal cage instead of a plastic enclosure.

Hammocks for resting, food, drink, and toys to play with should all be provided in the cage. Additionally, it would help if you took your Ferret out from the enclosure for at least 3 – 4 hours each day to play and explore.

Minks are inbred hunters. They hunt piglets, snakes, and birds in the wild, relatively large animals. Because minks can swim well, they search for aquatic animals like snakes, ducks, frogs, and toads.

In captivity, minks necessitate a primarily protein-rich diet. In general, a high-protein ferret or cat meal, or other types of raw protein diet, will be suitable for your Mink; however, you should consult with your veterinarian to make sure.

Ferrets are also predators, but they typically prey on smaller animals like mice or other small rodents in the wild. When ferrets hunt in the wild, they consume their prey in its whole. When the Ferret catches its prey, it eats everything in its stomach, including the meat, bones, and tissues.

Your veterinarian should always provide detailed advice about the type of food to feed your Ferret. It is best not to feed your domesticated Ferret the same food as a wild ferret because it’s dirty and nasty. On the other hand, your Ferret should be fed a diet heavy in protein and fat while limiting its intake of carbohydrates and fiber.

In terms of health, minks are susceptible to concerns such as:

• UTIs (Urinary tract infections)
• Pneumonia
• Bacterial infections
• Mastitis
• Viral enteritis in mink
• Aleutian disease
• Influenza

Regular veterinary care will be needed if you keep a pet mink. Before bringing a mink into your home, you should consult local veterinarians to check that they can care for such a mink, as not all veterinarians are. In addition, minks require routine vaccinations to remain healthy, including distemper, rabies, and some other yearly boosters.

Domesticated ferrets have specific health issues with minks, but not like many. Some frequent health issues include:

• Adrenal cancers
• Heart problems
• Issues with the respiratory system
• Parasites
• Dental Issues

If you have a ferret-like mink, you’ll need to take it to the veterinarian for checkups every few months. You should always call your local veterinarian to see if they can care for a ferret. It will be pretty easy to find a veterinarian for a ferret than a mink because they are more popular pets.

If you have any queries about your Ferret’s health, your veterinarian may provide any required vaccines, such as rabies shots, and guide general care.

Originally from North America, minks can now be found around the world. Minks in the wild are classified into two distinct species: the European and the American Mink.

Most European minks are currently located in Russia; however, they can also be found in Spain, France, and Romania. Other than North America and South America, American Minks can be found in the United States and Europe continents.

Previously, a third mink species known as the sea mink lived in the Gulf of Maine. On the other hand, sea minks are thought to be extinct now.

Although ferrets are a very common domesticated pet, their wild counterpart is no longer as numerous in the wild as it once was.

Only one ferret species, the black-footed Ferret, survives in the wild in America. This species is critically endangered and was considered extinct at one point.

Instead of ferrets, they’re referred to as polecats in various parts of the country. Additionally, wild ferrets can be found in a few other places throughout Europe and Asia. Before bringing a ferret or mink home, make sure your state allows them.

Minks are wild creatures that have not been domesticated. Therefore, they have a strong territorial instinct. Males frequently engage in territorial conflict with other males but may welcome females.

While they share the Ferret’s inherent curiosity, they are less prone to prefer human company and cuddling.

On the other hand, Ferrets are better suited to live like a family pet. They are active, playful, and can create close relations with their owners.

However, it is critical to handle them properly from an early age and socialize them with other people to promote the best temperament.

They are friendly, sociable creatures that thrive best in small groups. However, some ferrets may require solitary confinement. This is entirely dependent on the individual.

Ferrets are an excellent choice for small pets to build a strong connection because they are incredibly affectionate.

The Ferret, on the whole, is a better pet for a family with children. They don’t need as much space, and their settings are more straightforward.

Additionally, they are domesticated. Ferrets can be trained to love human company and cuddling if adequately cared for at an early age.

Minks require more space to explore and run, and they can be pretty territorial, resulting in aggression toward you.

If you are interested in bringing one of these cute little furry mammals into your home, you should look for a reliable ferret breeder.

Small burrowing animals can be found and fought by closely related mustelid species that can enter tunnels. Even when hunting for food, the Mink has an advantage over the Ferret. However, while the Ferret has become a popular breed, the Mink is kept for mink oil, fur farming, and ratting.

When choosing a Mink and a Ferret, you can select the Ferret. A ferret is a relatively inexpensive pet that is significantly better suited for indoor living. The Mink will need more attention and larger surroundings than the average individual can provide. In addition, their affectionate and curious personality will make them excellent companions for many years.

The post Mink Vs. Ferret appeared first on The Petster.

The tarantula’s name is based upon the fact that it is virtually entirely black. The carapace appears to be elongated and arched. It shimmers moss green on freshly skinned animals.

This tarantula is a member of the subfamily Ornithoctoninae, commonly referred to as ‘earth tigers.’ The Thai tiger tarantula is a fast-moving, aggressive spider that lives in burrows in the ground. They bite as they feel threatened and have a significant amount of venom.

Fortunately, their bite is harmless to humans unless the individual is allergic.

The Thai tiger tarantula can grow up to 15 cm (6 inches) in length and weighs approximately 42 g, with males somewhat smaller than females. They are entirely black and do not become brown before molting. After hatching, these tarantulas may lose as many as six times during their first year; they then molt just once a year.

The max leg span is 130 millimeters. As a result, the Thai tiger tarantula is classified as a medium-sized member of the family.

This species is all black except for the chevron marks on the abdomen. This species can reach a diameter of 15cm (6inches). Males are a little bit smaller than their female counterparts.

Thai tiger tarantulas live in caves. These spiders, recognized as “tiger tarantulas,” are prevalent in Southeast Asian woods.

The Thai tiger tarantula’s range includes tropical rainforests affected by monsoons. In addition, these species live in forests, for which they are often seen on the forest floor.

They use silk to construct burrows in the ground or behind the old tree bark. This silk is shaped into tubes that allow tarantulas to feel vibrations and determine when prey is nearby.

This tiger tarantula can be found in tropical rainforests in Myanmar, Thailand, and other countries.

Males have a significantly shorter lifespan than females since almost all spiders have. Males often live less than three years and perish shortly after sexual maturity. On the other hand, females can easily live for 10 to 12 years.

Tarantulas are popular as pets for many people. Unfortunately, they typically keep just the considerably more docile and friendly new world tarantulas. Thai tiger tarantulas are ancient world spiders that are significantly more dangerous and aggressive than other spiders.

Only those familiar with handling and caring for tarantulas should keep Thai tiger tarantulas. They are not suitable for children.

These are recommended for advanced keepers only.

This species should be kept in a 5 to 8-gallon enclosure as adults. Slings should be kept inside a pill bottle and then moved to a deli cup when they mature. To avoid tarantulas crawling to the top of their enclosure and getting their tarsus caught, it is recommended that they do not have mesh tops.

If they do, they may lose one of their legs. Tarantulas can climb and fall, and even a few inches of a fall can be fatal to them, so much substrate is required. Since this species makes deep caves, a higher elevation is needed.

There is no need for enclosure decoration; a piece of bark can be used as an initial burrow but is not necessary.

The ideal temperature range for this Thai tiger tarantula is between 78° and 84°F.

This species does not require lighting or heating when the temperature in the house remains between 75 and 85 degrees. However, you should use a compact portable heater if the temperature in your home falls below that level.

Humidity should be maintained between 70% and 80%. Two times a week, you should moisten about half of the substrate. This will help keep the humidity level high enough. A small dish can be used as a water bowl for an adult and a bottle cap for a juvenile specimen. Freshwater for drinking should be readily available at all times.

The Thai Tiger tarantula species are opportunistic carnivores. These tarantulas lurk outside their burrow at night, waiting for prey to come their way. These tiger tarantulas prefer places with an abundance of food sources.

So, they do not require to hunt. Instead, they will sit still outside their burrow at night, watching for passing prey. Their primary food sources include insects, lizards, and small birds.

Despite their eight eyes, tarantulas, like most spiders, do not have excellent vision. As a result, they cannot see their prey approaching, but they can detect it through vibrations. They utilize silk tubes in the structure of their burrows. The spider waits at the burrow’s entrance and receives small pulses via these tubes. The vibrations become more significant as the prey approaches closer, signaling the tarantula to strike.

This species can eat crickets and other insects of an appropriate size.

Tarantulas do not require any additional supplements.

Because this species is rarely bred in captivity, most specimens available for sale are field collected. To produce, you must have a healthy male and an adult female. After placing the male inside the female’s enclosure, assuming all goes according to plan, he will use his tibial hooks to grasp the female’s fangs and release the sperm into the female.

If you don’t separate them after mating, the female may try to consume the male. The female will create an egg sack if the breeding is successful. When the time comes, you will need to collect the female’s egg sack, place it in an incubator, and then release the egg sack once it is ready. Then, the slings must then be separated and stored in their containers.

This species is speedy and will bite without hesitation. If irritated, this species will bite many times and produces venomous stings.

Most of this species’ existence is spent underground, and it emerges from its burrow only at night to search for prey.

Thai tiger spider bites are venomous but not dangerous. However, some people experience intense pain, sweating, muscle agony, vomiting, headaches, and giddiness when bitten.

The Thai tiger tarantula prefers to dwell in underground tunnels, is extremely fast, and is quite aggressive. They bite when they feel danger and possess quite a potentially toxic substance. Fortunately, their bites are not lethal to humans unless the person is allergic.

This species grows to a maximum length of 5 inches, with males being slightly longer than females. This Thai tiger tarantula species can be found in tropical rainforests in Myanmar, Thailand, and other countries. Additionally, high substrate levels are recommended since tarantulas climb and fall, and a fall of a few inches can be lethal.

The post Thai Tiger Tarantula appeared first on The Petster.

Finally, while there are over 3000 different species of lizards, the Komodo lizard is just a single species that may have some color variations.

Is Komodo Dragon a Good Pet?

In general wild animals do not make good pets, but in this case, having a Komodo Dragon as a pet may rank right up there with having a hippo as a pet. Komodos have bad dental hygiene, to the point that they’re poisonous. Scientists have identified some 50 different bacterial strainsin their saliva, at least seven of which are highly toxic. If the komodo’s bite doesn’t kill you, its deadly drool likely will.

Their table manners leave a bit to be desired. The muscles of the Komodo’s jaws and throat allow it to open incredibly wide and swallow huge chunks of meat with astonishing speed. An adult Komodo can eat up to 80 percent of its own body weight in a single meal. Komodos are cannibals. Large ones will eat smaller ones. Young Komodos are known to roll in excrement so that they won’t be eaten by other dragons.

The Komodo is not “safe” around any other animal. Anything its size or smaller, it will try to kill and eat. And it never stops growing. So once it gets to be the size of your neighbor’s toddler, the kid moves into “prey” territory.

Are Komodo Dragons Friendly to Humans?

The diet of Komodo dragons mainly consists of Javan Rusa (Rusa timorensis), though they also eat considerable amounts of carrion. Komodo dragons also occasionally attack humans. Komodo dragons were first recorded by Western scientists in 1910. Their large size and fearsome reputation make them popular zoo exhibits.

How much does it Cost to Buy a Komodo Dragon?

According to wildlife officials in the United States, komodo dragons are being sold on the black market. In a report by CBS News, when smugglers offer a komodo dragon for sale, the price to buy the animal is reported to be $30,000. Buyers can also purchase a Madagascar tortoise for $30,000 as well.

What do I Feed My Pet Komodo Dragon?

Komodo dragons are never kept as pets because they are an endangered species. Komodo dragons are carnivores, so a whole animal diet is best. You can maintain them on a diet similar to that of other giant monitor lizards – whole frozen/thawed rodents and rabbits.

Zoos typically feed them a mix of different frozen/thawed prey animals, beef shank, and commercial reptile diets of some sort. Eggs and fish can be given occasionally as treats. At the same time, rodents are the primary part of the diet. Whole poultry works, too. Their protein ratio to greens, vegetables, and fruits should be 75/25. They should be fed 75% insects and 25% plant material.

For the first two months, bearded dragons will need to be fed crickets throughout the day.

Are Komodo Dragons Cannibals?

Not only are they cannibalistic, but Komodos are known for eating their own offspring. After the eggs hatch, baby Komodos instinctively climb high up in any trees to avoid being eaten by their mothers or other nearby Komodos. They can remain up in the trees until they are four years old when they return to the ground and can then live up to 30 years old.

Can Komodo Dragons Hurt You?

Even though a Komodo dragon attack is rare, it can kill a human. Komodo dragons have serrated teeth that can hinder even humans. Their venom is powerful and can kill a human within hours of a bite. Their physical strength is also overwhelming for humans. The Komodo dragon saliva contains multiple strains of bacteria that are also extremely harmful to humans.

How Long do Komodo Dragons Live?

Komodo dragons live about 30 years in the wild, but scientists are still studying this.

Can Komodo Dragons Climb Stairs?

Komodo dragons don’t climb stairs; they find it very difficult. Unfortunately, even though the Komodo dragon looks slow and somewhat lazy, they are fast runners and can quickly reach a pace of 18 kilometers per hour.

If you see a (traditionally wooden) stilted house, immediately climb up the stairs because the komodo cannot do that.

How Smart are Komodo Dragons?

Komodos are brilliant among reptiles. Wild Komodos hunting techniques involve a lot of decision-making and patience. They are indicative of a certain level of intelligence. Zoo-raised Komodos have shown the capacity to remember specific individuals (those who bring them food at least). Their handlers generally do not have to worry about being attacked and eaten as the Komodos behave themselves to the person bringing them food regularly.

They are not dumb but calling them ‘intelligent’ is a bit of a stretch when we compare them to intelligent creatures such as dogs, apes, or dolphins. But they are not mindless instinct-driven reptiles like we normally think of in regards to snakes or other lizards. They are smart enough to be patient, wait for opportunities, recognize friend from foe rather than prey or predator, make decisions, etc.

Can Komodo Dragons Swim?

Komodo dragons are known as talented swimmers! These reptiles will travel from one island to another by swimming. Komodo dragons have been known to be able to swim up to 1,000 feet at a time! They may also swim in order to escape from other Komodo dragons and they can dive and swim underwater as well, which helps them elude their predators.

But when the dragons found themselves separated from their home island by a thin stretch of ocean, only a quick swim away, they settled in. The water itself isn’t the problem, since Komodo dragons can swim pretty well.

Do Komodo Dragons Live by a Lot of Water?

Komodo dragons can only be found on five different islands in southeastern Indonesia. They can be found on the islands of Komodo, Rinca, Gili Montana, Gili Dasami, and Flores. This is the perfect place for these reptiles to live because they enjoy hot, humid weather, and these islands often reach a temperature of 95 degrees Fahrenheit during the day with up to 70% humidity.

Since these creatures live on islands, they are surrounded by water!

None of these islands are that big – for example, the island of Komodo is about 150 square miles, making it smaller than the total square mileage of New York City! Gili Montang is even smaller – this island has a total landmass of only 12 square miles. These islands are not all water though! All of these islands were made from volcanoes and they are covered in rocky hills, forests, and grasslands.

Are Komodo Dragons actually Dragons?

They are not dragons, but they are giant lizards globally! These lizards can grow up to ten feet long, about as long as a small car. On average, these lizards weigh about 150 pounds, but the enormous Komodo dragon weighed nearly 300 pounds! That is one giant lizard.

The reason they are called “dragons” is that there were rumors that there was a dragon-like creature on the island of Komodo. No Western scientist had laid eyes on a komodo dragon until 1912. Since the largest amount of these lizards can be found on the island of Komodo, they were given the name of the island.

Do Komodo Dragons Move Fast?

They may look large and lumbering, but these lizards are all muscle and can move with explosive speed. A Komodo dragon can run at an impressive 12 miles per hour (19 kph) in an all-out sprint. The average human sprints at 15 miles per hour (24 kph).

So, if you are caught by surprise by a charging Komodo dragon that was lying in wait for a meal, run like your life depends on it. Komodo dragons have been responsible for the death of four people in the last 41 years. Don’t underestimate their speed just because of their bulk.

Do Komodo Dragons have Tongues?

Their sense of smell is their primary food detector, however. According to the Smithsonian Zoo, Komodo dragons, like snakes, use their forked tongues to sample the air and then touch the tongue to the roof of their mouth, where particular organs analyze the airborne molecules.

If the left tongue tip has a more concentrated “smell,” the dragon knows that their prey is approaching from the left.

What is the Diet of Komodo Dragons?

Komodo dragons are carnivores, meaning they eat meat. They are such fierce hunters they can eat colossal prey, such as large water buffalo, deer, carrion, pigs, and even humans. They will also eat smaller dragons. They can eat 80 percent of their body weight in one feeding, according to National Geographic.

The Komodo has a unique way of killing its prey. First, it springs up and knocks the prey over with its huge feet. Then they use their sharp, serrated teeth — which are a lot like a shark’s — to shred their prey to death. If the prey escapes, it will die within 24 hours of blood poisoning because the Komodo’s saliva contains 50 strains of bacteria, according to National Geographic. With its fantastic sense of smell, the Komodo will find the dead animal and finish its meal.

Are Komodo Dragons Cold-Blooded?

Komodo dragons are cold-blood rather than warm-blooded. This means that they depend on environmental heat sources to warm their bodies. The researchers discovered genetic adaptations involving the function of the mitochondria, the power generators of cells that are critical in governing the function of cardiac and other muscles, that may amplify the lizard’s aerobic capacity.

As cold-blooded creatures, reptiles typically lack aerobic capacity, rapidly becoming exhausted after physical exertions, unlike warm-blooded mammals. Komodo dragons, an exception among reptiles, can achieve near-mammalian metabolism. The researchers also found adaptations involving genes that control chemical sensors involved in an advanced sensory system that lets Komodo dragons detect hormones, the body’s chemical messengers, and pheromones, chemicals released particularly by mammals that serve as cues to other members of their species.

How do Komodo Dragons Protect themselves?

They will use their tails as a weapon to protect themselves and catch prey. The tail of the Komodo is so strong it can knock down large wild boars and deers! They will also swing their tails to scare off other dragons or animals if they feel in danger. Komodo dragons have several vital adaptations, including long and sharp claws, sharp teeth and strong jaws, potent venom, and the ability to run at high speeds.

Komodo dragons can grow to be quite large, but despite their size, they rely on several physical characteristics to help them survive. They live on the Lesser Sunda Islands of Indonesia, and they are the top predators in their native range.

Komodo dragons are among the few hardy organisms that survive well in the harsh climate of the Sunda Islands. These dragons are giant lizards globally; according to National Geographic, adults may reach lengths exceeding 10 feet from head to tail and weigh over 300 pounds. They look as formidable as they act, with long, flat heads, rounded snouts, scaly skin, bowed legs, and long, muscular tails. Komodo dragons have carnivorous diets and eat a wide variety of prey, including deer, pigs, water buffalo, and other Komodo dragons.

These reptiles put their strong claws, teeth, and jaws to use when hunting and feeding. They may reach speeds of up to 15 miles per hour, and knockdown full-grown deer and pigs. After attacking, dragons stun their prey using powerful venom and use their strong claws to tear through tough, thick hides.

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With its characteristics, you will get to know how you will keep it as a pet.

Commonly misreferred to as Jewel moths, these exemplars have nothing to do with the true jewel moths (Eriocraniidae) that have gold on their wings. Rather, the Acraga Coa’s caterpillar, popularly known as the Jewel caterpillar has caused this misconception. Acreage Coa are with the Dalceridae family, found in southern Mexico, Belize, Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador, Costa Rica, and Panama, obviously preferring a more tropical climate, so unless you like to live in damp hot conditions – this isn’t your kind of pet. The Dalceridae family consists of at least 84 different species, all of their larvae sharing the gooey appearance so they’re often called “slug caterpillars”.

The amazing semi-translucent caterpillars don’t have any defense mechanisms, except for their gooeyness. Ants, which usually devour caterpillars, become stuck in the larvae’s jelly-like body. So it seems the species repel predators simply by being sticky and uncomfortable to attack. In this sense, the “Jewel” caterpillar does seem fitting – look all you want, but don’t touch it.

The Venezuelan Poodle Moth – the hip new thing in the bug world. The little critter has now been compared to everything from a Furby, gargoyle to a Pokémon character. In 2024 the species of moths were discovered by Dr. Arthur Anker of Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, in the Gran Sabana region of Venezuela.

Not much is known about the insect – not even its family (Dr. Anker has suggested Artace sp, perhaps A. criteria), except that it is found in Gran Sabana National Park in Venezuela and it is a hone kind of furry.

Dryocampa rubicund or the Rosy Maple Moth is a species native to North America, their range extending to southern Canada – Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island. As their name suggested, these colorful insects feed almost exclusively on maple trees. The Rosy Maple moth is covered in a coat of dense fuzz which helps them pollinate flowers better. Their coloration varies, but what stays common between them is the bright coloration. Researchers are still pondering on the purpose of their coloration, some believing it warns off predators.

Generally nocturnal, these furry beauties prefer to fly throughout the first third of the night. It is then that the adult females emit pheromones and attract males, which have bushier antennae to detect the pheromones. The Rosy Maple moth adults don’t eat. Their larvae, called Green-striped Maple worms, can occasionally become pests in the garden.

So, even though they are strikingly beautiful, if you do decide to breed and have them as a pet, they might still pose a potential pest problem to be taken care of with a moth control treatment by professionals.

Velleda Lappet Moth, also known as the Large Tolype Moth, is a species of lappet moth that ranges from Nova Scotia to central Florida, west to Texas, and north to Ontario. The adult fluffy insects are active from July to September. And by active I don’t mean eating, because adults don’t eat at all, they rather focus only on reproduction.

The Type moth larvae, also known as “tent caterpillars” are active from June to August, when they feed on the leave of broadleaf trees like apple, plum, cherry, apricot, etc. The caterpillars have their own astonishing specific – typically social, colorful, diurnal, and hairy on the sides, these insects get their name from their ability to build silk tents in the branches of host trees; which, of course, can either look very creepy or astonishing depending on your level of insect comfortability.

Known by entomologists and educated folks as Anisota virginiensis, also known as Pink-Striped Oakworm moth to differentiate it from the simple Oakworm moth. The Pink-Striped beauties are a species of silk moths from the family Saturniidae, found in North America to Canada inhabiting deciduous woodlands and suburbs.

Unlike other species, these moths mate in the morning. The males attract females by buzzing like a bee. Afterward, it’s a very wham-bam type of process, by which I mean rapid. A couple of moths stay together for the rest of the day until the female finds a proper place to lay the eggs – usually under oak leaves. Sadly, these beautiful moths are occasionally considered a pest of forests, because their larvae defoliate trees.

So, if you intend to breed or keep one as a pet, watch out for accidentally creating a moth infestation.

Megalopygidae, known to mortals as the Flannel Moths are one of the most interesting, amazing, and talked about moth families made up of 11 known species. From caterpillars to hatching as moths, these insects look like tiny fur-balls, hence the nickname of their larvae “puss caterpillars”.

However, if we look past their groovy exterior, the puss caterpillars are not the cute innocent little fur-balls they seem. Megalopygidae larvae are badasses that can cause a painful sting and inflammation which can last for several days, in some cases leading to headache, nausea, and shock-like symptoms.

It can be fun and interesting to catch wild moths to see the beautiful variety in colors, shapes, and sizes. Especially in tropical countries, the species of wild moths are amazing and very variable, but also in more northern latitudes like in Europe and North America you can find amazing species. Catching wild moths should always be done only to observe or photograph them. You should not take wild moths from nature to keep them in a cage at home.

Please conserve nature by admiring it without damaging it. If you want to keep moths as pets, please raise native caterpillar species and release the adult moths. Do not release moths that do not naturally occur in your country.

Moths can be caught easily by light trapping them at night. This method will work in summer and end of spring nights, or year-round in tropical countries. Moths are attracted to light, so by creating a bright light source in an area where moths occur you will attract them. Especially male moths fly a lot at night, so they are easily caught with this method.

For light trapping, you will need a strong and bright white light, a big white sheet or cloth, and a way to hang the sheet outdoors. The best sheets are not that thick, very white, and at least the size of a sheet for a single bed. You need to hang the sheet in an area without too many man-made lights and with plenty of nature around it. The location of the sheet, the hour of the night, and the weather will greatly influence the success of the trapping, so please try a few different locations on different nights to find out where you can find the most amazing moths in your area.

Hang the white sheet in the nature area and direct the bright white light straight at it. The light will illuminate the white sheet completely. Now it’s time to wait! The moths will be attracted to the light and will land on the sheet. On this sheet, you can study them and photograph them. Do not touch them with your hands as this damage the scales on the wings.

Please note that there are more ways of light trapping than using a sheet. I only describe this way of light trapping, because it is least damaging to the moths. It is not a trapping method, as the moths are not trapped but just attracted. Real trapping methods can kill moths, for example, if the moths are attracted to light inside a white bucket. The moth catcher does not have to stay up at night or observe the sheet, which makes it easy to catch big quantities of moths but will damage or kill many of the catches. For insect enthusiasts, children, and moth fans it is much better and more fun to catch moths using the sheet.

While you are catching moths by light trapping you can also get some interesting other finds! Many other bugs also are attracted by light. If you live in a country with praying mantises, you will be able to find male praying mantises on the sheet. If you live in a country with stick insects or leaf insects, you could catch flying males of these species.

You can also find mosquitoes, beetles, true bugs, and almost all other night-flying insects on the sheet.

They sleep in the daytime and should not be touched; it damages them. They belong outside, where they are beautiful pollinators. Some moths live inside and eat holes in your wool clothing if you have any. They don’t make good pets.

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They are prized for their luxurious fur, which attracts a high cost and is a primary reason for the mink being farmed and killed. In the wild, they live up to 10 years, and there are significant differences between the American and the European species.

Their similarity to ferrets means that many people keep or have tried to keep minks as pets, but before you consider trying to domesticate one or buying one that has been bred as a domesticated pet, there are a few things that you need to know about the mink.

While closely related to ferrets, mink have been domesticated for fur farming and not as pets like ferrets and make a very different kind of pet. Minks are semi-aquatic and require a source of water to swim in. They are also very good hunters with much more jaw power than ferrets.

It’s recommended that only experienced exotic animal owners consider purchasing a mink as it can be dangerous and cause injury.

Mink are avid, carnivorous hunters in the wild and will eat any prey it is capable of taking down. A captive kept mink should be provided with a high protein and low carbohydrate diet. This can mean a high quality, high protein ferret or cat food or a raw protein diet. Raw protein diets can sometimes be incomplete and run the risk of spreading bacteria to animals and humans. Providing (killed) whole prey can offer enrichment and essential nutrients for mink.

As with any animal, you should always provide mink with clean drinking water at all times.

It’s incredibly important that a veterinarian capable of caring for mink be found before deciding to keep one. Mink will need a vaccine for distemper and rabies and yearly boosters.

With their high energy and drive to hunt, mink require adequate space to play and stimulation to keep them happy. A multi-level ferret cage might be acceptable at a young age, but activity outside that space will be necessary.

Like any animal, the larger the enclosure and activities similar to their life in the wild that you can provide, the more content your mink will be. Mink are semi-aquatic, they have webbed feet to assist in swimming, and providing them with access to water to swim in is an excellent form of enrichment.

Mink are skilled escape artists and this should be kept in mind when planning to house.

Mink is a native species in many northern states and may require a permit from the Department of Natural Resources (or the equivalent, i.e. Fish and Wildlife, Fish and Game) to keep in captivity in certain states.

Michigan DNR requires wildlife in captivity to be permitted to keep a mink. A call to your state veterinarian’s office will get you the most accurate information on what is required by your state to keep and/or import a mink.

• They have an average lifespan of about 7 years.
• They can be very playful and even affectionate depending on how they are raised.
• They have fewer odors than ferrets.
• Animals purchased young make the best pets.

The mink is a semiaquatic creature. They hunt most of their food by the water’s edge and live by the side of lakes or rivers, so they have the physical characteristics to aid in this watery way of life.

The mink has webbed feet that aid them in gliding through the water without expending masses of energy. They also have a water-repellent coat. The mink can swim distances up to 50 feet, and they are rarely found more than 100 feet away from water.

Webbed feet mean that the animal has a layer of skin or membrane between its toes. The web gives them more resistance so the animal’s feet can push more water behind them. This increases the speed at which the mink moves through the water while reducing the amount of effort that they take to do so.

There are two distinct species of mink: the American and the European mink. Although they are similar in most respects, the biggest difference between the two is size.

American minks weigh up to 1.6kg and measure as long as 70cm, while the European variant weighs just 700g and measures 38cm in length. The American mink is nearly twice the size of its European counterpart.

Minks are carnivores. This means that they eat meat. They will hunt in the water for fish and animals like frogs and salamanders. They will occasionally hunt outside the water and kill mice, voles, and certain aquatic birds and they’re young. They may even kill hares and rabbits, although this is rare.

A baby mink is called a kit. They are born naked and completely blind, and they will remain in the nest until they are fully weaned. Two months after their birth, a baby mink will learn to hunt, and by next fall, they will set off to find their territory.

European minks have a gestation period of up to 72 days and American minks up to 75. Both species will give birth to between one and eight kits. While the American mink may become independent in just 6 weeks, the European will stay with their mother until 3 months of age, possibly 4.

The mink lives in a home called a den, and while they are capable of digging their dens, they will usually adopt the homes of other animals to call their own. They add materials like grass and fur to make the den more comfortable.

The European mink is listed as being critically endangered, which means that half of the population of this small mammal has been lost in the past 10 years and it is believed that 80% of the population will be gone within another decade. The American mink is not considered under threat at all.

The mink’s coat is another reason that the animal is so highly skilled in the water. It is coated in special protective oil that repels water. This prevents the mink from getting waterlogged, makes it easier for them to swim at high speeds, and makes the transition from water to land easier and more comfortable.

Mink fur is considered very valuable and it is used around the world. The cost of the pelt is one of the reasons that minks are farmed. Although mink farmers in most countries adhere to strict rules governing the welfare and killing of the animals, many groups still protest against the farming of minks for fur. Protestors point to inhumane methods used by some farmers and say that the minks are raised solely for their fur, which they consider to be a vanity item.

If you are considering keeping a mink as a pet, do know that they have several defenses if they are startled. They will hiss and growl, and they can even let off a smell that is similar to that of a skunk. They also use this scent as a method of marking territory, so, if you have two or more minks, it can lead to a very unpleasant smell in the home.

The mink may also attack if they feel threatened, and they have sharp teeth and effective claws that can cause more than a little damage to people. The ferocity of a mink is such that they are considered an exotic pet in some states, which means that the keeping of this animal is restricted.

Minks do not make good pets. Even if you managed to adopt a pair of fur-farm rescues, they would require the sort of care and housing you’d give a zoo animal, including a very large outdoor enclosure with a pool. A zoo or wildlife park would have the facilities for mink, but it’s unlikely an individual could cater adequately to their needs. Though they are considered domesticated, due to a century’s worth of fur farming, the fur farmers have never bred them for nice temperaments or for being nice to handle. They breed them for large sizes and nice pelts in desirable colors.

They aren’t much like a ferret, though they’re related to them, and keeping one healthy would be very expensive and challenging, given their need to swim. Also, good luck finding a vet willing to work with a mink – that alone could be a deal killer right there.

The post Keeping Mink as Pet appeared first on The Petster.

The excitement of finding a perfect companion can be great when looking for a puppy, kitten or exotic animals and pets of a specific breed, and this makes people often turn to online sales sites. Surely you have observed that more and more people are opting to buy in an online pet store, and it is that it is a very interesting alternative that brings great benefits to the buyer, AnimalsSale.com is the website where you can buy or sell animals in the US, UK, Europe and other countries. You can find on their website full information about all dogs’ breeds, advice from experts on how to take care of puppies and kittens and other interesting information.

So here we are going to discover some of the most peculiarities of buying a pet from an online store. Featured.

Advantages of buying from a pet store

Today more and more people decide to have an animal in their family. For this reason, the opening of stores where they can buy any product or service dedicated to pets is becoming more and more frequent. According to some statistics, between 40% or 50% of families have a pet, so we must know well the offers in the market to be able to give our pets the best for their health and comfort.

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Immense variety in offers

These premises, often have a huge variety of items for pets. For this reason, we can use them to obtain bags of feed for dogs of different sizes, sweets, food products, clothes for dogs, toys, cages (in the case of rodents), etc.

Unlike shopping centres and supermarkets where we find a limited amount of items for our pets. In a pet store, we can find different things more specific to your needs.

In addition, there are also offers on pets and we can find a wide variety of animal species (if the establishment is a large company). In these places, the animals are usually kept in good condition and the employees are in charge of cleaning the cages daily.

Quality Products

Also, the advantage of buying in a specialized pet store is that we can find good quality products at their price. And it is that the prices themselves are usually quite accessible.

Quality is still an important detail when purchasing a product and/or service. In these places, there are usually articles of a quality more than enough to fulfil their function.

In addition, we have the products organized according to the type of pet and this helps to find what we need and more quickly. This saves time and unnecessary wandering in the store.

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Something important to note is that the products that are sold in specialized stores are usually from recognized brands and that they will also give us a guarantee. More if it is something that our pet has to ingest.

This really is important, because we cannot give anything to our pet. They could get sick if what they eat is in bad condition and if so, we must quickly claim it from the place of purchase. But in these places, the quality of the products is taken care of.

Preparedness for customer service

Another advantage is that we can have personalized attention based on our requests. There are always people around the premises who can guide us in our purchase and tell us which product suits us best for our needs.

This is extremely important since many times we can go to these stores and not be clear about what brand or what characteristics in the article can be better for our pet. This is a great advantage of buying from these stores.

Personnel in charge of customer service are often people who love animals and spend their time learning about pets. The best advice to buy is from people with a lot of experience.

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Some people love them. Others fear them. Regardless, most of us would agree that they are at least very interesting to look at.

Reptiles: they can make fascinating pets if you are a reptile fan. Whether they hop, climb, or crawl, have legs or not, there’s a reptile for everyone who is intrigued by these animals. With so many reptiles from which to choose, if you’re considering a reptile as a pet, where should you start? Here is part one of my blog on reptiles. Below are 3 different reptiles commonly kept as terrific pets. Next week, I’ll add to the list.

1. Bearded dragon lizard

These medium-sized (1-2 feet long), yellow/brown/orange to red-colored lizards get their name from their ability to puff up the skin over their throats when they are angry or stressed. They are housed in glass tanks heated with over-the-tank lights so that the temperature in the basking zone should be 90-105°F and in the cool zone in the mid-70s°F. They need a tree branch or log for climbing and full-spectrum lighting with a UV-B/UV-A bulb to help them synthesize vitamin D-3 in their skin so that they can properly absorb calcium from their food. They should be fed crickets, mealworms, pinkie or fuzzy mice (dusted with supplemental calcium powder at least twice a week), plus a variety of chopped vegetables such as collards, kale, mustard greens, yellow squash, zucchini and shredded carrots. They should be sprayed daily with water which they will absorb through their skin and lap up off of their noses. If handled often, captive bearded dragons can be tamed to be quite docile and can live, on average, about 7-10 years

2. Leopard Gecko lizard

These large geckos (8-9 inches long) get their name from their yellow skin covered with brown stripes initially that fade to spots as they age. They live in heated glass aquariums with rocks on which to climb. Temperatures should range from 90°F in the basking zone to the low 70s°F in the cooler area of the tank. Although they are nocturnal, captive leopard geckos living indoors that are never exposed to direct sunlight fare better when exposed to some UV-A/UV-B rays from an ultraviolet bulb. They should be fed crickets regularly, along with occasional mealworms and wax worms (plus a pinkie mouse, if they are large enough to eat it). To provide better nutrition for the gecko, insects they are offered should be fed a diet containing vitamins (“gut-loaded”) and dusted with calcium powder before being fed to the gecko. Leopard geckos need a shallow water dish in which to soak and should be provided with a hide box containing moss or vermiculite that can be misted to provide a high enough humidity to allow normal shedding of skin. These gentle lizards live 8-10 years, on average, in captivity and make great pets for families.

3. Ball python snake

These snakes get their name because they curl themselves up into tight balls when they are nervous, with their heads pulled into the center. They are curious, gentle snakes that generally grow to 4-5 feet long. In the wild, they eat amphibians, other snakes, birds, and small mammals and do not typically eat the mice that fed to captive pythons. Thus, many ball pythons can be picky eaters that resist eating for weeks to months, at times. They can be housed initially in 10-20 gallon glass tanks with tightly fitting screen lids to prevent escape and with branches on which to climb. Shredded paper products are best used for bedding. They need a log or upside-down cardboard box in which to hide. Tanks must be heated to provide a 90°F basking zone, an 80-85°F cooler zone, and a 70-75°F overall temperature at night. While ball pythons are nocturnal, many captive ball pythons are healthier when exposed daily to full-spectrum light. They must have a shallow bowl of water in which to soak and should be sprayed daily so that tank humidity is 60-70% to shed properly. Ball pythons should be fed only pre-killed rodents (never live, or they may be bitten by their prey). Young snakes may be fed fuzzy mice, and adults may eat full-grown mice or small rats. Ball pythons may be tamed by frequent handling but should not be touched just after eating or in the middle of a shed, as these are times when snakes may be cranky. If maintained properly, ball pythons can make great pets that can live 20-30 years.

If you’re considering a reptile as a pet, whichever one you choose, remember always to wash your hands after handling them, as all reptiles, in general, carry Salmonella bacteria plus other bacteria and parasites that may be transmittable to people. Also, supervise all small children when they handle these pets, as the quick movements of young children can startle and scare these animals. Finally, once you get your new reptile family member, be sure to visit a reptile-savvy vet to have him/her checked and to make sure you’re caring for him/her properly. Remember, many reptiles are so long-lived that if you take care of them right, they may outlive you!

The post Everything You Need to Know About Raising Pet Turtles appeared first on The Petster.

Common names: Thailand Black / Big Black / Thailand Big Black

The Thailand Black Tarantula is a burrowing, aggressive old-world tarantula. They prefer a relative humidity of 80% or higher. Their carapaces, abdomens, and legs are all jet black. They can be found in Southeast Asian woodlands. They hunt across woods, but they prefer to remain close to their burrow.

The abdomen of a Thai black tarantula has a grey stripe before it molts. Males are smaller than females, weighing up to 42 grams. Their legs are lengthy and thick despite their relatively small size (approximately 5 inches (13 cm)).

They are entirely black & do not turn brown before molting. Such tarantulas molt up to six times during their first year from hatching. They usually lose once a year after that.

Thai Black tarantulas burrow to approximately 60 centimeters (24 in). They use silk to construct burrows in the ground or behind the oldest tree bark.

They use silk as a tripwire around their lair to let the Thailand Black know if anything lurks around the corner. This silk is woven into tubes that allow tarantulas to detect vibrations and determine when prey is nearby.

Burrows of this type are abundant across Southeast Asia.

They are a type of defensive spider. That is, they will avoid attacking someone unless provoked. However, they immediately return to their burrowing or hide in vegetation or loose soil if they are disturbed.

As a result, if this is not possible, they will rise and convey a clear signal to back off. Their front legs will be raised, and their fangs will be visible. Unfortunately, they often stay here until the threat is neutralized.

Males have a significantly shorter lifetime than females, as almost all spiders do. Males often live less than three years and die soon after sexual maturity. On the other hand, females can easily survive for ten to twelve years.

These black tarantulas prefer places with an abundance of food sources. Their diet includes insects, birds, lizards, and reptiles. So they don’t hunt. Instead, at night, Thai black tarantulas lurk outside their burrow, waiting for prey to come their way.

Despite their eight eyes, tarantulas, like most spiders, have poor vision. They don’t see their prey, but they feel it.

They use silk to make burrows in the ground or behind ancient tree bark. This silk is fashioned into tubes that allow tarantulas to detect vibrations and determine when prey is nearby.

The vibrations become more significant as the prey approaches closer, signaling the tarantula to attack.

Male species mature between the ages of 1 and 2 years. Females begin to make theirs around the age of 3 to 4 years. The male will coax the female out of her burrow by vibrating it with his pedipalps. The mating activity begins as soon as she emerges. Males mate shortly after this molt and die quickly after that.

It takes to develop an egg sac is uncertain; however, it appears to be around two months. The sacs can hold forty to four hundred eggs.

This species is speedy and will bite without hesitation. Additionally, this species will bite many times if aroused, and its venom is considered medically significant.

The spider will bite if the warning does not have the desired impact or the threat approaches.

Their venom is deadly to birds and small pets but not to humans. Unless the patient includes allergies, you won’t know it until it bites you. So that’s another reason to avoid getting too close to Thailand’s wild black tarantula.

Tarantulas are popular pets. They usually only keep the much more docile and friendly new world tarantulas.

Thailand’s black tarantulas are ancient world spiders that are significantly more dangerous and aggressive than modern world spiders. To keep and care for Thai black tarantulas, only those with extensive experience should do so. They are not suited for children.

They prey on fruit flies and young crickets as spiderlings: an adult Dubia or Turkestan roach, adult cricket or locust, oversized mealworm, or super worm.

These are intended for advanced keepers only.

1. Enclosure – As adults, this species should be housed in a five or 8-gallon enclosure. Slings should be maintained in a pill bottle and progressed to a deli cup as they mature. 

Sometimes tarantulas climb to the top of enclosures and get their tarsus trapped, potentially losing a leg. So, it is recommended to utilize squares without mesh tops. 

High substrate levels are also required, as tarantulas can climb, and a fall from just a few inches can be lethal. In addition, as they make bottomless holes, this species necessitates a high level.

2. Requirements for Basic Enclosures – Fossorial configuration with at least four times the spider’s size in horizontal area, 15 cm to 20 cm deep substrate with a water dish to keep them happy. This setup is ideal.

3. Cage decoration – There is no need for cage decoration; A bit of burrow made of bark can be utilized if desired but not required.

4. Temperature – The ideal temperature range for this species is between 78° and 84°F.

Temperatures recommended: 24-26°C (summer), and 20-25°C (winter)

5. Lighting and heating – No heating or lighting is required for this species, as long as your home is kept between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature in your home falls below that level, a small portable heater should be used to warm the room.

6. Humidity – Humidity should be maintained between 70% and 80%. Two times a week, you should moisten about half of the substrate. This will help keep the humidity level high enough. A small water dish can be used as a water bowl for an adult and a bottle cap for a younger specimen. Water should be readily available at all times.

7. Supplements – Tarantulas don’t require any additional supplements.

8. Breeding – Because this species is infrequently bred in captivity, most specimens available for purchase are field collected. To reproduce, you’ll need an adult male and an adult female. You must place the male in the female’s enclosure; if all goes well, he will use his tibial hooks to grasp the female’s fangs and deposit his sperm into her.

If you don’t separate them after mating, the female may try to consume the male. The female will create an egg sack if the breeding is successful. When the time comes, you will need to remove the female’s egg sack place it in an incubator, and after which you will need to cut the egg sack when it is ready. The slings must be separated and placed in separate containers.

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Silver Bengal cats, like other Bengal cats, come in two colors: silver-spotted and silver-marbled. They fascinate viewers with their silvery-stripped coats and their enchanted green or yellow/golden eyes.

There are only a few silver Bengal cats in existence.

Bengals are the result of crossbreeding domestic cats with Asian leopard cats. This breeding aimed to produce a cat with the temperament of a domestic cat and the crazy and wild patterns of the Asian leopard cat.

Silver Bengals were developed in the 1990s as a hybrid breed. They are the offspring of a Bengal and an American shorthair cat hybrid. While most people believe Silver to be a distinct color, specialists consider it to lack color. This is due to the presence of an inhibitory gene.

Silver Bengal cats are scarce. Many people think normal brown Bengal cats are rare. However, silver Bengal cats are a rarer breed than brown Bengal cats. Silver is a very new color scheme in Bengal cats; it was only approved in the breed in 2004.

The rarest Silver Bengal cat will have both Silver’s inhibitor genes.

Silver Bengal cats, like several other Bengal cat families, are easygoing. They enjoy expressing their love for their loyal parents.

They are highly active cats who enjoy playing. They dislike long periods of inactivity. They are exceptional climbers and would like to climb on bookcases and doors, among other things, in the house. Be prepared for them to knock things over and break things. They will regard your home like a jungle.

If you want to ensure that your Silver Bengal cat does not destroy anything, you can get a cat window perch, cat hammocks, or a cat tree for her. These should be arranged to allow your cat to move between them.

When it comes to the size of silver Bengal cats, they are the same as any other Bengal.

Male Bengals weigh between 10-15lbs (4.5-6.8kg), whereas female Bengals weigh between 6-10lbs (2.7-4.5kg). Therefore, the larger Bengals might weigh 22lbs (10kg).

Bengals, on the other hand, are not among those breeds. Therefore, Bengal cats need to be with either a human or another animal.

A smart Bengal cat will communicate effectively with you about its requirements. They are the noisiest and most communicative cat breed. Persistent demands are also a feature of their personality.

This type of cat will annoy you until it has what it demands, whether it be a source of nutrition, water, toys, or attention.

The Bengal is a common species due to its jungle habitat. Therefore, daily meals, walks, fun activities, and other scheduled activities must co-occur.

To some extent, all cats hunt. It is part of their nature. However, some hunters are more skilled than others, and some are more motivated to pursue than others. Due to its breeding, the Bengal is motivated to hunt.

The Bengal cat’s appearance, size, and temperament may cause some people to feel scared. This is a popular misconception about the Bengal cat. Bengals are not more aggressive than other cats. Those who are not adequately socialized, on the other hand, tend to have a wild side.

Silver Bengals are more expensive than regular Bengals due to their rarity. While an adult or mature Silver Bengal cat can be purchased for a few hundred dollars, a Silver Bengal kitten can be bought for three thousand dollars.

The majority of Bengals are priced between $1,400 and $3,000. They start at $3,000 and go as high as $5,000 or more. However, it’s also true that some breeders charge more.

Breeder rights are required for those who wish to breed cats. So, these can cost thousands of dollars more.

Silver Bengals are known as hypoallergenic cats because of their short hair and low to non-existent shedding. As a result, the Silver Bengal cat is suitable for allergy sufferers.

Silver Bengal cats, unlike other Bengal cats, do not require grooming. Once a week, you can brush their coat to keep it healthy and shimmery. However, brushing more frequently would strengthen your relationship with your pet.

Bengals are a way to discover genetics. Breeders must genetically test pairings and kittens to acquire the appropriate colors, markings, and health.

Breeders select specific Bengals for breeding to obtain particular results. In addition, cats must be fed a special diet of organic and raw foods and kept in specific catteries. Taking everything into consideration, the pricing is relatively high.

Bengal cats are available in several colors and shades and have various markings. Silver Bengals were recognized as a TICA championship variety in 2004, making them an excellent choice if you’re looking for a champ based on their pedigree.

Silver Bengals have a fabulous coat with minimal warm colors. Small pieces of yellow or brown can occasionally be found, particularly around the face and legs, but the best ones have very little of this.

Gray and black marks contrast against a light gray or nearly white background.

The melanistic Silver Bengal is one of the more popular and intriguing Silver Bengal breeds. It is one color, but there are different variations of Silver in the markings. The Smoke Bengal cat is a silver cat with a silver background and silver markings.

Have you just gotten a Silver Bengal? Or you’re ready to buy a Silver Bengal and aren’t sure if it’s a silver Bengal. Here are a few things to look out for when determining if your cat is a Silver Bengal.

• Spotting or marbling ranging from grey to jet black
• Tail with a black tip
• A nose that is brick-red in color
• Green, yellow, or gold eyes
• It may be slightly tarnished

There are Bengal breeders in the US, Canada, and worldwide. However, they are less common than other carriers. Even so, Bengal cats are among the rare cat breeds worldwide.

When searching for and interviewing Bengal breeders, the following is a list of items to keep in mind:

• Reputable breeders will inform you or show you their facilities. Catteries should be constructed structures with heating and cooling appropriately. The cats and kittens should be allowed to roam freely in non-caged areas most of the time.
• Some Bengal breeders specialize in specific breed variations, such as Silver or Snow Bengals. Some others will have a wide range of colors and patterns.
• Inquire about the care of queens and kittens. Some breeders choose to keep their animals in specially built areas and even their homes.
• When a kitten is less than 11 weeks, a good breeder will not release it; however, most will not remove it until the cat is 12 and 14 weeks old.
• Verify that they are still in good condition with TIPA and other cat organizations. Additionally, inquire whether their program has any champion cats or if they have received any awards.
• The cattery owner should be available to answer any queries you may have even after you’ve brought the kitten home. New cat owners may have particular difficulties as their kittens mature.

Their most distinguishing characteristic is their beautiful coat. A Bengal is usually associated with sports; however, they also have marble and rosette coats.

Rosetting is what gives certain people spots that resemble doughnuts rather than dots. Rosetting consists of areas with two distinct colors. Marbling is a type of horizontal striping that creates a beautiful array of shimmies and swirls on the body’s side and back.

Cinnamon bun-like swirls are standard when depicting a cat, yet they are stunning.

Silver Bengals can be pretty stunning. The introduction of genes that decrease the characteristic brown coloration resulted in this appealing, ‘wintery’ looking cat.

Because the silver inhibitory gene is handed down regardless of color, silver variations of snow, blues, black, and melanistic have also been developed, adding to the breed’s diversity.

Because of their recent creation, however, they are rare than brown Bengals and, as a result, are potentially more expensive.

Silver Bengals are unique in appearance but share all other Bengal cat characteristics, including size, temperament, and lifespan.

Several variables might affect the price of a Silver Bengal, so it’s important to know what they are before selecting.

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