Reptiles

Yes, turtles are reptiles. They are cold-blooded, air-breathing animals with scales and four limbs, belonging to the order Testudines, the same reptile group as tortoises and terrapins.

Crested geckos can live 5 to 15 years in the wild, and up to 20 years in captivity with good care. They do best in environments with stable humidity, low stress, and proper nutrition, which I learned after meeting the vendor Critters, Khaos & Creations.

A helmeted iguana was displayed by Ginkgo's Exotics at the Goshen Reptile Expo. The reptile’s distinct crest and calm temperament made it a standout among the animals shown at the event.

Attendees and vendors interact at the North American Reptile Breeders Conference.

When they are first hatched, and are very small, they can eat cut chicken hearts. As they get bigger, they transition to eating pinkies. Feed a hognose like most other pet snakes.

Adult crested geckos usually grow to about 8 inches long from head to tail, though some reach up to 9 or 10 inches. Their body without the tail is roughly 4 to 5 inches, about the size of an adult’s hand.

Yes, tarantulas make webs, but they don’t spin the big wheel-shaped kind. Amber, from Amber Arachnid says they fill their space with silk that they use for walking, sensing, and catching food.

Hognose snakes can make good pets for people who appreciate their dramatic, hissy personalities. They’re harmless, expressive, and a little theatrical, which some people find charming and others find annoying.

As I was passing the display, for Josh’s frogs, at the Tinley Park Expo, I noticed a delightful interaction. A chameleon happily catching drops of water from a paper towel being squeezed.