| I wouldn't say all herps are lousy parents,some are just better than others.
For example lizards.
Some species will bury their clutch and leave them to fend for themselves,while other species will defend the laying area quite vigorously.But there is still a maternal instinct from both species.Although the 1st case does not defend the area it had still checked all substrate in the area to find the best place to lay in regards to safety,temperature,humidity etc. | 
