Gopher passion - specialist breeder Alan Stotton explains his fascination with these snakes, and traces the history of the increasing number of colour variants that are now available.

Reptile obsessions - what attracted you into the hobby? One reader explains how he became involved. Sticks on fire - pro-file of the Peruvian fern insect, which is one of the most striking of all phasmids.

The mysterious black python of New Guinea - a species which is currently proving a challenge for even the most experienced boid breeders around the world.

Lizard-spotting on Ibiza - there is more to do on the island than just partying, as John Courtney-Smith reveals. You may even want to go on a snake-hunt!

Making introductions - Hannah Salisbury looks at what to bear in mind when choosing a species, and adding new stock to a collection.

Nature's secret army - David C. Wareham reveals how we and our homes are under constant attack from invertebrates.

Understanding ball python genetics - Double and triple morphs combos are amongst the topics covered by Jay Mitchell of j.v.k Reptiles.