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New hope for previously doomed turtle species

Featuring stories about the strange way in which a new type of snake was discovered, how a conservation programme to reintroduce geckos has thrown up unexpected results, an unusual finding about the way that a snake has adapted its method of moving, why crocodiles have remained largely unchanged in appearance for millions of years, and more, starting with fantastic news for one of the world’s most critically-endangered species, which was feared to be heading to extinction.

Why crocs have not changed a lot

New research by scientists at the University of Bristol

The strange discovery of a remarkable new species of snake

In all honesty, the newly-described Waray dwarf burrowing

Owls help to identify rare invertebrates

The feeding habits of birds can be an invaluable tool

New climbing method observed in invasive tree snake

Researchers have discovered that invasive brown tree

Giant prehistoric crocodile discovered

A prehistoric crocodile measuring more than 5m (16.5ft)

HOW FLYING REPTILES EVOLVED

Pterosaurs were the earliest vertebrates to develop

Puzzle Corner

Find the solutions to these puzzles by following the clues, to discover which reptiles, amphibians or invertebrates are hidden within them. The answers can be found on p66.

How amphibians see the world

Continuing his series about amphibians and their biology, Paul Donovan concentrates on their sense of sight. Good vision is obviously important with regard to many aspects of an amphibian’s lifestyle, ranging from recognising a potential threat to spotting prey, but how does it compare with that of other animals, and particularly reptiles?

Turtle tank set-up & lighting

Email your queries to practicalreptilekeeping@gmail.com.

Size is no indicator of aggression

I recently acquired three electric blue geckos - a

REPTILE FOCUS

This species is widely-distributed across sub-Saharan

TALES OF GIANTS

Dr Karl Shuker examines the evidence surrounding the descriptions of two ancient giant creatures mentioned in the Bible, and considers if their identities can now be accurately determined and whether they are reptiles?

YOU & YOUR Reptiles

If you have a favourite photograph of one of your reptiles

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Don’t miss our exclusive interview with the scientist

New diagnostic techniques

There are a number of additional ways in which sick reptiles can now be assessed, as explained by Dr Joanna Hedley, BVM&S, DZooMed (Reptilian), DECZM (Herpetology), MRCVS.

New thoughts on old problems

As a reptile vet, there are a number of so-called “common

ANISOMORPHA – a real stinker!

Edward Baker considers some stick insects with a very effective means of defending themselves from would-be predators. These are not recommended as children’s pets!

How to look after and breed Bismarck pythons

Remember the story about the ugly duckling? Well, picture it in reverse, removing the bird and water, and substitute a snake and a group of islands. Meet the Bismarck python. Christian Castille provides a definitive account of these snakes.

Keeping and breeding green tree monitors

Ever since the first wild-caught specimens began to appear in high-profile zoological collections about 20 years ago, the green or emerald tree monitor (Varanus prasinus) has captivated the herpetological community but it has remained rare. Just recently however, thanks to an increasing understanding of its needs, so a few successful breedings are starting to occur regularly, with small numbers of captive-bred youngsters now becoming available. Hannah Salisbury recounts her experiences with this colourful species.