Principles of Reptile and Amphibian Care

This course explores the care and management of reptiles and amphibians in captivity, combining practical husbandry with an understanding of their diversity and biology.

You will develop knowledge of key husbandry practices, including enclosure design, temperature and lighting, humidity, feeding and routine care. Alongside this, you will explore how differences between species influence their needs, helping you make informed decisions about their care.

The course also examines behaviour, health and welfare, enabling you to recognise normal and abnormal signs and understand your responsibilities as a carer.

By the end of the course, you will have the knowledge and confidence to provide appropriate, responsible care and to support the long-term health and welfare of reptiles and amphibians.

• Describe the main groups, basic biology and key differences of reptiles and amphibians, and how these relate to their care in captivity.
• Explain appropriate husbandry practices, including enclosure design, environmental conditions and feeding, for commonly kept species.
• Recognise normal and abnormal behaviour and signs of ill health, and explain how to support the welfare and responsible care of reptiles and amphibians.

Each module can be booked individually. The cost is £110 per module.

Diversity and Identification

In this module, you’ll explore how reptiles and amphibians evolved and learn about the key characteristics that distinguish the major groups. You’ll compare reptiles and amphibians and discover how features such as their skin, reproduction, eggs, thermoregulation and adaptations to different environments shape the way they live. 

You’ll also explore their external anatomy, natural behaviours and ecology, including the habitats they occupy and how some species respond to seasonal changes through periods of dormancy. 

The module will introduce you to some of the challenges facing reptiles and amphibians today, including habitat loss, pollution and the impact of the exotic pet trade. 

Throughout the module, you’ll develop practical identification skills, learning how to use observable physical characteristics and basic classification to recognise a range of commonly kept reptile and amphibian species.

Husbandry and Management 

In this module, you’ll explore the principles of reptile and amphibian husbandry and discover how the needs of different species influence their care. You’ll learn about enclosure design and environmental management, including heating, lighting, humidity and hygiene requirements for commonly kept species. 

You’ll also explore feeding and watering requirements, including different diets, supplementation, gut loading and appropriate methods of providing hydration. 

Safe and responsible handling is another important part of the module. You’ll learn about appropriate handling techniques, how to recognise signs of stress and defensive behaviour, and how to consider potential risks to both the animal and the handler. 

Throughout the module, you’ll develop the knowledge needed to make informed husbandry decisions and provide safe, appropriate care that supports the welfare of captive reptiles and amphibians.

Health, Welfare and Responsible Ownership 

In this module, you’ll learn about the legislation that relates to keeping reptiles and amphibians in the UK, including animal welfare, wildlife, dangerous wild animals and invasive species legislation. You’ll also explore international trade regulations, including CITES, and consider the importance of responsible sourcing and choosing licensed and reputable sellers.

You’ll explore the welfare needs of reptiles and amphibians and consider some of the ethical issues associated with keeping these animals in captivity. You’ll learn to recognise normal and abnormal behaviours and examine how behaviour, environmental conditions and welfare are closely connected. 

The module will also introduce you to key aspects of reptile and amphibian anatomy and physiology and how these influence their health, behaviour and care requirements. 

Finally, you’ll learn to recognise signs of good and poor health and explore the importance of preventative care, hygiene and disease prevention in supporting the health and welfare of captive reptiles and amphibians.