Ethical Reptile Care &
Enrichment-Based Habitat Design

Close-up of a small green lizard resting on a piece of bark among large green leaves and moss.

Welcome to Terra Nova Reptiles

We’re passionate about reptiles—and committed to their ethical care. Our mission is to promote responsible ownership by providing expert guidance, humane husbandry practices, and science-based education that support the health and well-being of every reptile. Whether you're a first-time keeper or a seasoned herper, we’re here to help you care for your reptiles with respect, compassion, and knowledge.

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Two small frogs with brown and white markings on green leaves and a piece of wood in a tropical environment.

Our Projects

Green lizard resting on wood inside a terrarium with a heat lamp above.

Emerald Tree Skinks

Emerald Tree Skinks (Lamprolepis smaragdina)

The Emerald Tree Skink is a vibrant and agile lizard native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands. Named for its striking green coloration, this arboreal species is known for its sleek body, long tail, and curious, intelligent behavior. Adults typically reach 8–10 inches in length, with slender limbs and sharp claws well-adapted for climbing.
These skinks inhabit tropical forests and coastal areas, where they spend most of their time in trees, basking in sunlight or foraging for insects and fruit. In captivity, they thrive in vertically oriented enclosures with plenty of branches, foliage, and hiding spots that mimic their natural environment.
Emerald Tree Skinks are highly active and social reptiles that can display fascinating behaviors, especially when housed in groups (ideally with proper space and monitoring). While they may be a bit shy at first, with consistent handling and a calm environment, they can become quite interactive and bold.
Known for their intelligence and speed, Emerald Tree Skinks require a well-maintained environment with warm temperatures, high humidity, and UVB lighting to stay healthy. Their diet should include a variety of live insects, supplemented with occasional fruits and calcium/vitamin dusting.
With their dazzling appearance and energetic personality, Emerald Tree Skinks make rewarding pets for intermediate to experienced reptile keepers who are prepared to meet their environmental and behavioral needs.
Coming Soon!

A green and red chameleon climbing a glass wall in a terrarium with tropical plants, wood branches, and a container of mealworms inside.

Giant Day Geckos

Giant Day Geckos (Phelsuma grandis)

The Giant Day Gecko is one of the most iconic and visually stunning gecko species in the world. Native to the tropical forests of northern Madagascar, this large diurnal (day-active) gecko is known for its vibrant lime green body, bright red markings, and striking blue or turquoise accents—making it a favorite among reptile enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Adults typically grow between 8 to 12 inches in length, making them the largest of the day geckos. Their adhesive toe pads allow them to climb smooth surfaces with ease, and their expressive, curious behavior makes them a joy to observe. However, Giant Day Geckos are best admired, not handled, as their skin is delicate and they can be easily stressed by frequent contact.
In captivity, these geckos thrive in vertically oriented enclosures with ample climbing space, live plants, cork bark, and bamboo. They require warm daytime temperatures (80–88°F), UVB lighting, and moderate to high humidity (60–80%) to stay healthy and active. A basking area and a slight temperature drop at night will help mimic their natural environment.
Their diet is omnivorous, consisting of a variety of gut-loaded insects (like crickets, dubia roaches, and flies) and specially formulated fruit or nectar-based gecko diets. In the wild, they also consume pollen, nectar, and soft fruits, which should be replicated in captivity for optimal nutrition.
Giant Day Geckos are intelligent, alert, and full of personality. While not ideal for handling, they are excellent display animals and do well in bioactive enclosures where their natural behaviors can truly shine. With proper care, they can live 10–15 years in captivity.
Coming Soon!

A terrarium with lush green plants, moss, driftwood, purple orchids, and humidity visible through condensation on the glass.

Bioactive Habitats

What Is a Bioactive Habitat?
A bioactive habitat is a type of naturalistic enclosure designed to mimic an animal’s natural environment by incorporating a living, self-sustaining ecosystem. Unlike traditional setups that rely on frequent deep cleaning and artificial decor, bioactive enclosures use live plants, natural substrates, and beneficial invertebrates (like isopods and springtails) to help maintain cleanliness and ecological balance. The result is a healthier, more enriching environment for reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates—and a more visually appealing setup for keepers.
Coming Soon!

Ethical Reptile Care &Enrichment-Based Habitat Design