Lizards have increasingly become fascinating pets both for the amateur and well-seasoned enthusiast of reptiles alike. Interesting to own and relatively low-maintenance, they belong to different species, each with its special needs and characteristics. For you who look to have pets with no requirement to be taken outside for a walk, or simply to observe an exotic animal up close, lizards represent a very attractive alternative option.
Why a Lizard as a Pet?
Lizards are slowly but surely becoming the ultimate pet for any person looking to venture into the realm of reptiles. There are a number of advantages one has for having a lizard as a pet. For one, they are considerably low-maintenance as compared to other pets like dogs or cats. Many species of lizards require minimal grooming and are usually satisfied with their habitat needs.
They are also great avenues for owners to learn about reptilian biology and behaviors. But with their wide variety of species, there is an appropriate lizard for everyone, whether in small apartments or spacious gardens.
Popular Lizard Species for Beginners
More importantly, the requirement for new owners of lizards not to have species that are too demanding in their care. Some species which easily pass the good-to-go stage without much fuss over their care from most starting points include:
The Bearded Dragon
The most favorite as pets among the lizards is a bearded dragon. It’s known for nature and thus does not have particularly complex care either. They will eat both insects and vegetables alike—they are, in fact, omnivores. Further, they enjoy a very decent shelf-life— as a great amount as 10 to 15 years, thus serving their purpose of good long-term companions.
Leopard Gecko
Other great choices for new owners include the leopard geckos. As a night species, they do not normally be very active in the daytime, and therefore they suit busy people. They are insect-eaters and as such would require food that is highly loaded with crickets and mealworms. They are quite easy to handle and also do not require much space.
Crested Gecko
They carry some crest on its head and over its back; hence, called the crested geckos. Low maintenance and will be able to tolerate a wide variety of environments easily is yet another reason why Crested Geckos become a favorite pet among beginners. This lizard will accept fruit and insect foods, too, without relying on specialized lighting.
Lizard Anole
Anoles are relatively small, lively lizards; hence, care is pretty easy and straightforward. This insectivorous breed of lizard makes them feed on various tiny insects. They can even be kept indoors in a reasonably small enclosure and do not demand large-scale space. Thus, they remain entertaining to the viewer because much territorial behavior will show them showing their brightly colored throat flaps.
Establishing a Terrarium for Your Lizard
A good habitat will ensure that your lizard is properly looked after. Lizards require an enclosure that closely resembles their natural environment, with appropriate temperature and humidity conditions with suitable lighting. Given below are some of the steps required to prepare a habitat for your lizard:
Choices of the Right Tank
The size of the tank is going to be contingent on the species of lizard you are caring for. Small species, such as a leopard gecko, may be fine in a 20-gallon tank, but larger lizards, like bearded dragons, are going to need at least a 40-gallon or even larger tank. Make sure that the enclosure has a tight-fitting lid to prevent escape.
Temperature and Lighting
Most lizards will require a basking spot of 90 to 100°F (32 to 38°C) during the day. A cooler area within the tank where the animal may retreat to when its body temperature lowers is also beneficial. For most species, special UVB lighting is also necessary to allow them to synthesize vitamin D3 for the absorption of calcium.
Humidity Control
Humidity is one of the most important factors in making your lizard comfortable. Different species have different requirements for humidity, so it is necessary to find out about your pet’s specific needs. Many reptiles prefer a humidity level between 40 and 60 percent, but some tropical species may require more moisture.
Substrate and Decorations
Lizards love ornaments for something to hide on inside the terrarium. Adding rocks, branches, and plants will let them climb and explore. Take extra caution to avoid substrates that can prove harmful, like sand for species like leopard geckos that may ingest it.
Feeding Your Lizard
Proper diet and nutrition are very crucial for your lizard’s health. Though most of their diet depends on the species, most of them are herbivorous, carnivorous, or omnivorous. Some require a diet of live insects, while others can survive on fruits and vegetables or maybe a little of both.
Following are general tips for owners in feeding lizards:
Omnivorous Lizards (Bearded Dragons)
Omnivorous ones eat both animal and plant-based foods. An example can be that the bearded dragon needs a mixture of leafy greens, vegetables, and insects such as crickets and mealworms for its diet. This will make your pet grow healthy and well.
Insectivorous Ones (Leopard Geckos)
The insectivorous animal generally feeds on insects. Regarding this context, the leopard geckos are normally fed with crickets, mealworms, and waxworms. All three insects are ought to be dusted with the supplement named calcium, and this nutrient your lizard requires in keeping your pet’s bones healthy.
Herbivorous (Green Iguanas)
Herbivorous animals feed only on plants and their products. A good example is the green iguanas that will thrive well on a staple of leafy greens, fruits, and vegetables. They should be fed fresh produce daily to keep them healthy.
Handling Your Lizard
Most lizards are fairly docile and do not stress from being handled; however, this does vary with the species. One of the more popular types is the bearded dragon due to its agreeable disposition and actually seems to like being held. On the other hand, some species of lizards, such as chameleons, do prefer to be left alone and may become stressed by excessive handling.
It’s best to handle your lizard gently and with care. Start by letting your pet become accustomed to your presence before attempting to pick it up. Always support their body fully and avoid grabbing their tails, as some species may shed their tail as a defense mechanism.
Lizard Health and Care
It is essential to provide regular check-ups and care for lizards to keep them healthy. Watch for signs that your lizard might not be well, such as a loss of appetite, lethargy, or strange behaviors. Keep their enclosure clean, including the removal of uneaten food promptly. Clean the tank regularly to avoid any accumulation of bacteria, which could lead to health concerns.
Health problems common to all lizards include respiratory infections, parasites, and shedding problems. Consult a reptile veterinarian for advice and treatment if anything appears unusual.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Lizards
How long can pet lizards live?
The lifespan of lizards is varied depending on species. The average lifespan of lizards ranges from 5 to 20 years.
Can fruits and vegetables be given to my lizard?
Some species are omnivores, and indeed fruits and vegetables can be added to their diets. However, generally, for proteins, there should be an inclusion of insects also, which largely varies species to species.
How often does the tank need to be cleaned?
Cleaning is highly recommended once a week minimum to avoid any accumulation of bacteria or mold formation.
What kind of lighting does a lizard require?
Most reptiles require UVB lighting, which in turn helps in the absorption of calcium and synthesizing vitamin D3.
Are lizards good pets for kids?
It is no problem for kids to have a pet lizard, provided one teaches them the proper way to handle them. Some species are more manageable than others.
