Compatible Species of Reptiles

Combining different reptile species in a zoo exhibit adds a new dimension to the average single-species displays but requires a lot of space. Zoological institutions therefore often house more than one reptile type in large elaborate exhibits. Many reptiles are predatory and a number are venomous, which makes mixed exhibits challenging for zoo staff to manage and even more difficult for private reptile enthusiasts to achieve.

  1. Crocodiles and Alligators

    • Crocodiles and alligators of the same size can be housed together, provided the enclosure is large enough and caters to the needs of each reptile. Both species need to regulate their body temperature, and there must be sufficient basking areas to ensure that all the animals can bask at once, if they so desire. It's best to only house animals of the same sex to prevent conflicts during the breeding season. All animals must be well fed to keep aggression levels to a minimum.

    Aquatic Turtles

    • Different species of aquatic turtles, such as map turtles, red-eared sliders and painted turtles, are compatible, provided they are housed correctly. Space is an important criteria and each turtle must have sufficient area to move and rest as necessary. It is best to house animals of the same age or size and ensure that each receives the correct rations each day. Food dishes or sites should be spread throughout the camp or enclosure, to ensure that dominant animals do not prevent more submissive ones from eating.

    Tortoises and Lizards

    • Terrestrial tortoises, which remain on the ground in a camp, can live together with the smaller lizard species, which live in trees or prefer to bask on rocks and prominent ledges. Anoles, geckos and chameleons are all compatible with tortoises, particularly because these lizards will be using territories that are out of reach and of no interest to the tortoises. Exhibits housing these lizards need to be closed in to prevent escape and can include large glass enclosures or those enclosed by wire.

    Constrictors

    • Different species of constrictors, such as boas and pythons, can be housed together, if they are all the same size. Constrictors are not venomous and crush their prey to death. Venomous snakes, particularly those of different sizes, are best avoided in the same exhibit. Constrictors that are housed together must be supervised at feeding time, and the enclosure must provide enough ledges, dams and basking areas to prevent competition over territories.