Introduction to Lizard Care
Lizards are fascinating reptiles that can make rewarding pets for the right owners. With over 6,000 species worldwide, lizards vary enormously in size, habitat requirements, diet, and temperament. Depending on the species, lizards can live anywhere from 3 to 20+ years, making them a significant commitment for pet owners.
Did You Know?
Lizards are among the most diverse reptile groups with adaptations ranging from gliding membranes (flying dragons) to the ability to run on water (basilisks). They've evolved specialized features like UV-sensitive third eyes, detachable tails, and remarkable color-changing abilities.
About Lizards
Lizards are cold-blooded reptiles that require specific environmental conditions to thrive. While some species are well-suited to captivity, others have complex needs that make them challenging to keep as pets. Understanding the specific requirements of your chosen species is essential for providing proper care.
-
Lifespan
Ranges from 3-5 years for smaller species to 15-20+ years for larger lizards like bearded dragons and iguanas
-
Size
Varies dramatically by species: from tiny 3-inch geckos to 6-foot monitor lizards
-
Temperature Needs
Require precise temperature gradients with basking spots ranging from 85-110°F (29-43°C) depending on species
-
UVB Requirements
Most species need UVB lighting for vitamin D3 synthesis and proper calcium metabolism
-
Diet Variety
Diets range from strictly insectivorous to herbivorous or omnivorous depending on species
Beginner Tip
If you're new to lizard keeping, consider starting with hardy species like leopard geckos or bearded dragons. These species are generally more forgiving of minor husbandry mistakes and have well-established care guidelines.
Habitat Setup & Environment
Creating the proper habitat for your lizard is crucial for its health and wellbeing. Different species have evolved for specific environments, so research your particular lizard's needs thoroughly:
Enclosure Size
Generally, the bigger the better. Minimum size depends on adult size of species—a full-grown bearded dragon needs at least a 40-gallon tank.
Humidity Levels
Desert species need 20-40% humidity; tropical species often require 60-80%. Monitor with hygrometers.
Temperature Gradient
Create a range with a warm basking spot and cooler areas to allow thermoregulation. Use thermometers at both ends.
Lighting
Most lizards need UVB lighting (reptile-specific) plus a heat lamp or ceramic heat emitter for basking.
Habitat Essentials
A proper lizard habitat should include:
-
Appropriate Substrate
Options vary by species: reptile carpet, tile, paper towels for desert species; coconut fiber, cypress mulch, or bioactive substrates for tropical species
-
Climbing Structures
Branches, rocks, hammocks, and platforms for climbing species (most arboreal lizards)
-
Hiding Spots
Multiple hides on both warm and cool sides of the enclosure to provide security
-
Water Source
Shallow water dish for drinking and soaking; misting system for high-humidity species
-
Enrichment Items
Live or artificial plants, different textures, tunnels, and rotating objects to provide mental stimulation
Important
Never use sand for juvenile lizards or species prone to ingesting substrate (like bearded dragons), as this can cause impaction. Similarly, avoid pine or cedar substrates that release harmful aromatic oils.
Diet & Feeding
Proper nutrition is essential for lizard health. Dietary needs vary significantly between species, with some being strict insectivores while others are herbivores or omnivores:
Diet Types by Species
Insectivores
Leopard geckos, crested geckos, anoles: Feed primarily insects such as crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms, and superworms.
Herbivores
Green iguanas, uromastyx: Feed primarily dark leafy greens, vegetables, and occasional fruits; minimal to no animal protein.
Omnivores
Bearded dragons, blue-tongued skinks: Feed a mix of insects and plant matter, with proportions varying by age and species.
Supplements
Most lizards need calcium and vitamin supplements dusted on food; frequency varies by age, species, and UVB exposure.
Feeding Guidelines
-
Insect Feeding
Gut-load insects 24-48 hours before feeding; dust with calcium/vitamin powder according to schedule for your species
-
Plant Matter
Offer a variety of dark leafy greens (collard, mustard, dandelion), vegetables (squash, bell peppers), and limited fruits
-
Feeding Schedule
Juveniles: feed daily; adults: feed every 2-3 days for insectivores, daily for herbivores
-
Foods to Avoid
Fireflies (toxic to reptiles), avocado, rhubarb, wild-caught insects, high-oxalate greens as staples
Pro Tip
For insectivorous lizards, offer a variety of feeder insects rather than just crickets or mealworms. This ensures a broader spectrum of nutrients and prevents selective feeding behaviors.
Health Care & Common Issues
Preventative care is the cornerstone of lizard health. Many common health issues are directly related to husbandry problems, particularly with temperature, humidity, diet, and UVB lighting.
Signs of a Healthy Lizard
-
Appearance
Clear, alert eyes; smooth skin/scales without abnormal shedding; full tail; proper weight
-
Behavior
Active during appropriate times (day for diurnal species, night for nocturnal); normal feeding habits; proper thermoregulation
-
Movement
Strong limbs; coordinated movement; ability to climb and navigate environment
-
Waste
Regular, well-formed feces; semi-solid urates (white portion of waste); normal urine
Common Health Issues
Metabolic Bone Disease
Caused by calcium deficiency/improper UVB; symptoms include tremors, swollen limbs, soft jaw, deformed spine. Prevention: proper UVB, calcium supplements.
Respiratory Infections
Caused by improper temperatures/high humidity; symptoms include wheezing, mucus, open-mouth breathing. Requires veterinary treatment.
Parasites
External (mites) or internal; symptoms include weight loss, lethargy, abnormal feces. Veterinary diagnosis and treatment necessary.
Dysecdysis (Shedding Issues)
Incomplete shedding due to low humidity or health problems; can lead to circulation issues if not addressed.
Preventative Care
-
Veterinary Check-ups
Annual visit to a reptile-experienced veterinarian; bring fecal sample for parasite testing
-
Weight Monitoring
Weigh regularly to track growth and detect early weight loss; keep records
-
Habitat Maintenance
Spot clean daily; deep clean enclosure monthly; replace UVB bulbs every 6-12 months
-
Observation
Daily monitoring of behavior, appetite, waste, and physical appearance
Warning Signs
Seek immediate veterinary attention if you notice significant lethargy, lack of appetite for more than a few days, significant weight loss, difficulty moving, or labored breathing. These symptoms can indicate serious health issues that require professional treatment.
Handling & Taming
Some lizard species can become quite tame with regular, gentle handling, while others are primarily display pets that should be handled minimally. Species temperament and individual personality greatly influence tamability.
Handling Guidelines
-
Support the Body
Always support your lizard's entire body, especially the legs; never grab by the tail as many species can drop them
-
Start Slowly
Begin with short handling sessions (5 minutes) and gradually increase as your lizard becomes comfortable
-
Regular Schedule
Handle at regular times to establish a routine, but avoid handling during shedding or after feeding
-
Reading Body Language
Learn your species' stress signals (puffing up, gaping, tail whipping, color changes) and stop handling if observed
Taming Approaches
Food Association
Hand-feeding (when appropriate for species) can help create positive associations with your presence.
Patience & Time
Some lizards take months to become comfortable with handling. Consistent, gentle interaction is key.
Scent Familiarization
Place a worn (clean) t-shirt in the enclosure so your lizard becomes familiar with your scent.
Supervised Freedom
Allow exploration in a secure, lizard-proofed area while supervising to build confidence.
Handling Tip
When picking up your lizard, approach from the side rather than from above. Predators attack from above, so approaching from overhead can trigger a fear response. Scoop from underneath or gently guide onto your hand.
Popular Pet Lizard Species
There are many lizard species kept as pets, each with unique care requirements and temperaments. Here are some of the most popular options for different experience levels:
Beginner-Friendly Species
Bearded Dragon
Docile, hardy lizards that often enjoy handling. Omnivorous diet, need large enclosures with UVB. Live 8-12 years, grow to 18-24 inches.
Leopard Gecko
Nocturnal, ground-dwelling insectivores with simple care needs. No UVB required, though beneficial. Docile temperament, 8-10 year lifespan, 8-10 inches.
Blue-Tongued Skink
Sturdy, slow-moving omnivores with generally calm dispositions. Need moderate enclosure size, UVB lighting. 15-20 year lifespan, grow to 18-24 inches.
Intermediate Species
Crested Gecko
Arboreal, nocturnal geckos. Need tall enclosures with high humidity. Feed commercial powder diet and insects. 15-20 year lifespan, grow to 6-8 inches.
Uromastyx
Desert-dwelling herbivores needing very hot basking spots (120°F+). Diet mainly greens and vegetables. 15-30 year lifespan, grow to 10-18 inches depending on species.
Chinese Water Dragon
Semi-aquatic, arboreal lizards requiring large, tall enclosures with water area. Need high humidity and UVB. 10-15 year lifespan, grow to 3 feet.
Advanced Species
Green Iguana
Large herbivores requiring huge enclosures, strict diet, and high humidity. Can be territorial, especially males. 15-20 year lifespan, grow to 6 feet.
Tegu
Large, intelligent omnivores requiring room-sized enclosures and varied diet. Can be tamed but need experienced handlers. 15-20 year lifespan, grow to 3-4 feet.
Monitor Lizards
Intelligent, active predators requiring custom, secure enclosures and specialized care. For experienced keepers only. 10-20+ year lifespan, size varies by species (2-6 feet).
Responsible Ownership
Always research thoroughly before acquiring any lizard species. Consider adult size, enclosure requirements, lifespan, and expense. Never release unwanted pet lizards into the wild, as they can harm local ecosystems or suffer due to unsuitable conditions.
Start Your Lizard Care Journey
Keeping lizards as pets can be an incredibly rewarding experience. These fascinating reptiles offer diverse behaviors, appearances, and care needs that can satisfy keepers with various interests and experience levels.
Remember that successful lizard keeping requires research, preparation, and commitment to meeting your pet's specific environmental and dietary needs. With proper care, your lizard can thrive and provide years of companionship and enjoyment.
Have questions about lizard care?
Our reptile experts are here to help. Connect with other lizard enthusiasts and get personalized advice for your scaly friend.
Join Our Community
