- Provide leafy greens. The best part about uromastyx lizards is that they eat foods that can be picked up from the grocery store.
- Offer vegetables. In addition to greens, you can provide your lizard with a mix of veggies. ...
- Avoid broccoli and related vegetables. The vegetable species called "brassica oleracea" includes broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, and cauliflower.
- Provide insects as an occasional treat. Uromastyx lizards are primarily herbivorous, and will get most of their nutrients from plants.
- Feed your lizard 5-7 times per week. Uromastyx lizards can eat as often as every day. ...
- Include a calcium powder in your lizard's diet. Calcium is important for lizards because it protects against metabolic bone disease.
- Provide a little bit of water. Uros are accustomed to an arid environment, and they don’t require a lot of water.
Where do Uromastyx lizards get their food?
Much of your Uromastyx lizard’s food can come from the grocery store as well as your home garden. Most Uromastyx species are predominantly herbivorous, with insects making up an insignificant part of their natural diet – around 4% or less.
What do you feed Uromastyx?
In the wild and captivity, uromastyx eat mainly vegetation – vegetables, greens, as well as some seeds, legumes and fruits/berries. Feeder bugs and other high protein foods should be extremely limited or eliminated due to harm to internal organs over time. How often do uromastyx eat? Feed your baby to adult uromastyx (0-24 months) daily.
How often should I Feed my Uromastyx lizard crickets?
You can provide insects (such as crickets) for an occasional treat 1-2 times per month. Adult uromastyx lizard tend to really enjoy insects, but over-eating these can cause major digestive problems.
What kind of light do Uromastyx lizards need?
In addition to lights that provide heat, your uromastyx also requires full-spectrum lights that provide him with rays in the UVB portion of the electromagnetic spectrum. These rays enable uromastyx lizards to properly metabolize and use the calcium in their diet.
What do you feed uromastyx daily?
The uromastyx diet should be a mix of dark green leafy vegetables and died peas, lentils, and seeds. Dark leafy greens (Romaine, escarole, kale, cabbage, turnip greens, collard greens, mustard greens, dandelion greens, cilantro should be offered several times weekly to daily.
How often should I feed my uromastyx?
How Often Should I Feed My Uromastyx? Juveniles (0-24 months) should be fed daily. Once they reach the adult (24+ months) stage, they can be fed a little less; you can still feed them daily if you want to cut back on the meal sizes; alternatively, you can feed them five days a week instead.
What fruit can a uromastyx eat?
Fruit: Occasional. They enjoy a variety of berries, such as raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries. Seed: Occasional. Some species can have occasional seed such as millet.
What is the best fruit to give to a uromastyx?
Most fruits are suitable for Uromastyx species, but do not feed Starfruit as it is very high in oxalates. Fruit in general tends to have moderate levels of oxalates. Papaya and fig are high in calcium, but fig seeds can cause impaction in young Uros. Prickly pear cactus fruit is also a good choice.
What do uromastyx like to eat?
Uromastyx are unique in their preference for small seeds such as millet and lentils. Lentils are easily sprouted using a damp wash cloth. Dry lentils can be offered as well, and are generally eaten with equal enthusiasm. Some owners opt to feed a pellet based diet in addition to the dark leafy greens.
How do I make my uromastyx happy?
1:5316:09Uromastyx Care (Niger or Saharan) - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo they're going to be kind of hilly type structures with mostly rock as well as some compact layersMoreSo they're going to be kind of hilly type structures with mostly rock as well as some compact layers of sand and dirt in these rocky outcrops. They make long tunnels. And stay in those tunnels.
Should I give my uromastyx water?
Water. Most Uromastyx species do not drink from a bowl but get most of their water needs from their food. Hatchlings should have a shallow jar or tupperware lid of water available every other day. New arrivals, sick individuals and gravid or recuperating females may require occasional drinks of water.
Can uromastyx eat cucumber?
No, you should avoid giving your uromastyx cucumber. Cucumbers are high in water and low in nutrients, with Ca:P. ratio of 1:1.5. Can offer some when you need to provide extra moisture.
How long can a uromastyx go without eating?
Uromastyx can go quite a long time without eating – juveniles and older uromastyx can go without eating for 1-2 months during brumation. Generally, not eating for few weeks won't kill a uromastyx.
Do Uromastyx need light at night?
UVB Lighting is essential for Uromastyx to process calcium in captivity. Without UVB lighting and a proper diet, Uromastyx will develop serious health problems such as Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD). UVB Lighting should be left on for 10-12 hours per day and turned off at night.
Do Uromastyx need crickets?
Insects (not required): Uromastyx thrive on a completely herbivorous diet, but occasional insects can provide an energy and protein boost, especially in juveniles.
Can you overfeed a Uromastyx?
There is a common misconception that you cannot overfeed Uromastyx. This is not true, especially if the proper temperatures aren't reached; there are many examples of overweight/obese Uromastyx in captivity (though this cannot only be attributed to overfeeding).
Do uromastyx need light at night?
UVB Lighting is essential for Uromastyx to process calcium in captivity. Without UVB lighting and a proper diet, Uromastyx will develop serious health problems such as Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD). UVB Lighting should be left on for 10-12 hours per day and turned off at night.
How long does it take for a uromastyx to be full grown?
Males tend to be slightly larger than females. Hatchlings start out at about two to four inches long and ultimately grow to an adult size of 10 to 36 inches (depending on the species of Uromastyx). It takes approximately three to five years for a Uromastyx to reach their adult-size.
Do uromastyx need baths?
1:178:29How to Bathe a Uromastyx (Spiny Tailed Lizard) - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYes. There are going to be people that tell you that oh it's okay to bathe your euro. And water I'veMoreYes. There are going to be people that tell you that oh it's okay to bathe your euro. And water I've never had any issues that are.
What does uromastyx poop look like?
Normal uromastyx poop should consist of a well-shaped uniform brown part (feces), and a white/yellowish part – urates. Urates are a solid form of pee – nitrogen waste from kidneys.
Where do uromastyx lizards eat?
Much of your Uromastyx lizard’s food can come from the grocery store as well as your home garden. Most Uromastyx species are predominantly herbivorous, with insects making up an insignificant part of their natural diet – around 4% or less. As with iguanas, many feel that Uros should take insect protein to have a healthy, balanced diet.
When do Uromastyx eat?
Uromastyx can be picky eaters, especially with newly introduced foods so it’s best to provide a wide variety every day, in the early morning when they are actively foraging. Their tastes are also seasonal, with some foods ignored at certain times of the year. Uros eat most vigorously in the spring months.
What are the staples for uromastyx?
The first section of the Uromastyx food chart lists the daily staples for that week and include two daily greens and one vegetable. Squash and cactus pads can be treated as staple “greens”. The other vegetables should make up 20% of the daily staples. Mixed veg refers to either commercial, frozen mixed veggies or your own blend, depending on preference. The staples section is designed to always have something familiar for your Uros to eat, as drastically changing food items can put them off-feed. Staples should consist of 60-90% of the diet, which helps take advantage of availability (dandelion greens, hibiscus leaves and cactus pads for example).
What vegetables are good for Uromastyx?
Leafy Greens. Green leafy vegetables can make up the bulk of the Uromastyx diet. Spring Mix salads include baby lettuces (Lactuca sativa) usually including red & green shades of romaine, loose leaf lettuce like oak leaf, lollo rosso, and tango.
What to feed a cactus when feeding less?
When feeding less, be sure to use highly nutritious foods such as cactus pads, alfalfa, dandelion, etc. 10-40% of total diet; can vary by season/availability. / means "or" as these items are matched by nutrition or other characteristics. Combining them should also be ok.
Can a captive uromastyx eat plant food?
This is false. Captive Uromastyx have done quite well on a completely herbivorous (vegetarian) diet of plant foods. If you choose, you can offer newly acquired Uros some insects to get them to settle in, but this type of food is not necessary. Most herbivorous lizards do best on diets low in animal protein.
Can Uromastyx eat starfruit?
Generally, fruits should be used sparingly (less than 10% of the diet). Most fruits are suitable for Uromastyx species, but do not feed Starfruit as it is very high in oxalates. Fruit in general tends to have moderate levels of oxalates. Apple (with peel) Berries.
How often should a uromastyx eat?
This would be based on the fact that your uromastyx eats 5-7 days a week. If your uromastyx eats less (adults can eat every other or every other two days), then reduce the frequency of mentioned foods. A good rule is to always offer 1-3 types of staples, with a little bit of occasional food. Oxalic foods = foods that with frequent consumption can ...
Is parsley high in calcium?
While parsley is high in calcium (Ca:P ratio of 2.4:1), it’s very high in oxalates. You can rarely offer some parsley with a salad, or better – replace with fresh basil, coriander, mint, oregano, rosemary.
Can Uromastyx eat pomegranate?
While uromastyx can eat pomegranate, those seeds can cause impaction in some cases – such as with high consumption, in babies or dehydrated animals. Better to avoid or remove seeds. High phosphorus (Ca:P ratio of 1:3.5).
Can Uromastyx eat pumpkin seeds?
Yes, uromastyx can eat pumpkin seeds, but make sure they are mixed with other types of seeds. Offer a mix of seeds once-twice a week. Seeds are high in fat and some are high in phosphorus and protein, and also lack moisture.
Can uromastyx eat collard greens?
Yes, uromastyx can and should eat collard greens when available. Collard greens are one of the staple greens, with a great Ca:P ratio of 14.5:1.
Can you give uromastyx cucumbers?
No, you should avoid giving your uromastyx cucumber. Cucumbers are high in water and low in nutrients, with Ca:P ratio of 1:1.5. Can offer some when you need to provide extra moisture.
Can uromastyx eat Brussels sprouts?
Yes, uromastyx can eat brussels spro uts, but quite rarely, as they are high in goitrogens. Feed once in 2-3 weeks or less. Ca:P ratio is around 1:7.
What is the name of the lizard that digs in dry riverbeds?
The Uromastyx is one of over 300 species of lizard that are part of the Agamidae family, which also includes lizards like bearded dragons and Sailfin Dragons. A natural burrower, the Uromastyx loves to dig in soft soiled environments such as dry riverbeds, but has also been known to thrive in rocky cliff sides.
How big of a tank does a uromastyx need?
Uromastyx Tank Size. For babies and juveniles, you can get away with a mere 20 gallon tank (often referred to as “20 gallon breeder”). However, a full grown Uromastyx will need much more space! Ultimately, your pet will appreciate as much space as you can provide them!
What is a Uromastyx?
With 15 different species of Uromastyx – there’s bound to be some major differences in color! Here you can see the Ornate Uromastyx, whose scales feature vibrant shades of blue and orange.
What reptiles are vegetarian?
Uromastyx are one of the BEST vegetarian reptiles you can own as they enjoy a diet that is predominantly veggies.
How big do Uromastyx get?
On average, Uromastyx grow to be between 10 and 18 inches in length. However, the largest species of Uromastyx, the Egyptian, can exceed 3 feet in length. Typically, males tend to be longer than females with an average length of 15 inches. Females average in length 13 inches.
How deep can a uromastyx burrow?
Did you know? A Uromastyx’s burrow in the wild can be as deep as 10 feet ! Even more impressive? Researchers have witnessed Uromastyx entering burrows only to emerge at a separate exit point, meaning they’re capable of creating underground tunnel systems.
How many species of Uromastyx are there?
This makes them fairly adaptable and easy pets to care for. It is believed there are currently 15 species of Uromastyx, all of which require very similar care.
How to keep a uro lizard from eating greens?
If your lizard is consuming greens daily, the majority of their water intake will come from their food. To provide a bit of extra water, you should mist the inside of their cage 1-2 times per day. You can also provide a small dish of water, but it should be removed from the cage after one hour.
How to feed lizards calcium?
Include a calcium powder in your lizard's diet. Calcium is important for lizards because it protects against metabolic bone disease. Look for a calcium powder designed specifically for reptiles and sprinkle it on vegetables before you feed them to your lizard. ...
How to tell if a uromastyx lizard is sick?
Watch for health problems. The most obvious sign of health problems in uromastyx lizards involves how they are going to the bathroom. If your lizard has diarrhea or constipation (that lasts more than 24 hours), bring your lizard to the vet. Other signs to look for include:
What is a uromastyx lizard?
Uromastyx lizards (also known as spiny-tailed lizards, dabb lizards, and uros) are exotic reptiles that make good pets for reptile enthusiasts. These (mostly) herbivorous lizards require a larger-than-average habitat and fresh food daily.
How big is a uromastyx?
Uromastyx lizards require significant temperature gradients. They also need room for active grazing and digging. For these reasons, the uromastyx needs a larger cage than other lizards of a similar size. Here are some guidelines: Less than 10 inch lizard (25.5 cm) = 36 x 12 inch (91 x 30.5 cm) cage.
What temperature should a lizard cage be?
You will want to aim for a brightly lit cage with a gradual temperature gradient ranging from 80-100 degrees F (26.5-38 C).
What is the substrate for a lizard?
The term “substrate” refers to the materials that line the bottom of your lizard’s cage. One common substrate for uromastyx lizards is natural sand. Place 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) of sand on the bottom of the cage. Look for “washed play sand,” and avoid any sand intended for sandblasting or industrial use.
What insects can uromastyx eat?
The best insects to offer your uromastyx are crickets and roaches, but superworms and silkworms are also nutritious prey sources. Uromastyx lizards should not be fed vertebrates, such as pinkie mice or small lizards.
How much space do uromastyx lizards need?
As a rule of thumb, you’ll want to provide young lizards with at least 2 square feet of space, while adults require about 8 to 10 square feet of space .
Why is the Moroccan Uromastyx wild caught?
Moroccan uromastyx ( Uromastyx acanthinura) Note that because the majority of uromastyx sold in the pet trade are wild-caught, the availability of different species varies. This occurs for several reasons, but two of the most notable include political unrest and changing conservation laws.
How many species of Uromastyx are there?
Although we’ll largely be treating all uromastyx lizards similarly below, it is important to note that there are about 14 different species within the genus Uromastyx. In the broad sense, most uromastyx lizards require the same basic type of care, but the various species do differ in a few key ways.
What is the diurnal period of a lizard?
Uromastyx lizards are diurnal, meaning that they are active during the day. They’re typically most active in the early portion of the day, as they’ll emerge from their burrows to feed, find mates and bask, before returning to sheltered areas once the temperatures rise too high.
Why do lizards use their tails?
They’ll also use their tails to block the entrances to these crevices and make it difficult for predators to extract them.
What is the name of the lizard that has a spiked tail?
Known by several names, including spiny-tailed lizards, dabb lizards and mastigures, lizards of the genus Uromastyx are some of the most interesting reptiles available in the pet trade. Easily identified by their massive spiked tails and flattened body shape, uromastyx lizards can make great pets for informed, well-prepared keepers.
What do uromastyx eat?
Uromastyx are herbivores, and require a low-protein diet. They do not eat insects or other animals. Instead, they eat a variety of greens, vegetables, flowers, and seeds. Fruit can be offered as a rare treat. The bulk of the plant matter fed to uromastyx should consist of nutritious leafy greens and orange vegetables such as squash or carrots. Appropriate greens include collard greens, arugula, dandelion greens, hibiscus leaves, chard, kale, carrot and beet tops.
How many species of Uromastyx are there?
Uromastyx are 10-30” long, diurnal desert-dwelling lizards with rounded heads, large, rotund bodies, and substantial, spiky tails. There are roughly 18 species in the genus Uromastyx, which can be found throughout North Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Asia.
How big of an enclosure should a uromastyx be?
A single uromastyx should be housed in no smaller than a 4’L x 2’W x 2’H enclosure. Larger individuals (larger than 15”) should be housed in nothing smaller than 6’L x 2’W x 2’H, preferably larger.
Do uromastyx need UVB?
Yes! Uromastyx require UVB lighting for their survival. UVB lighting helps provide a clear day/night cycle, provides all of the vitamin D that your pet needs, strengthens the immune system, facilitates better digestion, and other benefits.
What temperature should a uromastyx be?
As desert lizards, Uromastyx like it really hot! In the daylight hours, an average ambient temperature in the low-mid 80s is ideal, with a basking area ranging between 110-130’F. Specifically, the actual basking surface (either a flat rock or driftwood) should be this temperature, not the air temperature.
Where do Uromastyx live?
The Uromastyx group is native to various regions in North Africa, the Middle East, and some extending into India. They are generally found in hot, desert areas with little or no water regularly available.
How big do uros get?
As with many lizards, male uros will get larger than females. Males usually average around 14-16”, while females rarely grow longer than 12”. The only exception is the Egyptian Uro, which, in males, can occasionally reach a whopping 3 feet in length. Coloration and pattern varies significantly with each species.
What color are the uros?
The Ornates, Rainbows, and Sudanese Uros have intricate patterns with hues of green, yellow, blue, and orange. The Mali, Moroccan, Saharan, and Orange Bentis all can range from a lemon yellow to a bright Halloween orange-red.
What is a spiny tail lizard?
General Info. Uromastyx lizards (occasionally known as spiny-tailed lizards or dab lizards) are a fairly common reptile in the pet trade. They are moderately-sized lizards with fat bodies, chubby heads and a thick spiky tail that is almost saurian in appearance. Many hobbyists make the observation that they look like a tortoise without its shell ...
Can lizards tear their digestive tract?
Both are indigestible to lizards and with their jagged edges, can easily tear the digestive tract, resulting in death (many necropsies have been done and support this). Decorations. Above anything else, be sure to provide a cozy hiding shelter for your uros.
Can Uros be cagemates?
Cagemates. In most cases, you want to avoid housing Uros together. Not only will males obviously be intolerant of each other, even females can sometimes be belligerent towards other females. And occasionally, even members of the opposite sex do not always get along, either.
When do uromastyx start eating?
By then, your uromastyx will start to become more active. They will also start eating soon after. Give them around a week or two to fully come out of brumation.
How to cool a uromastyx?
To cool your uromastyx, you will need to decrease the temperatures in the tank slowly, as well as the number of daylight hours. You can start in the mid November, by reducing the amount of food you are offering. Give your uromastyx around a week to properly digest food, and stop offering any more.
When do uromastyx breed?
In the wild, uromastyx will brumate through the cooler winter months and then become active and interested in breeding in the early spring, in early March. These times will be different in Southern Hemisphere (Australia etc.).
How to tell if a uromastyx is male or female?
The most reliable way to tell the sex of your uromastyx is by looking if there are hemipenal bulges on both sides of the tail, as well as femoral pores. Femoral pores run along the thighs – male pores will be much more prominent.
How often do uromastyx come out?
During brumation, your uromastyx might come out for few hours every few days – they won’t be in deep sleep. They will just have less energy to move around due to low temperatures and no food. Offer a water dish every few days, or tap some water on its mouth. Every few days, check on them, to make sure they are well.
How long does it take for a uromastyx to mature?
Most uromastyx reach sexual maturity and adulthood by the age of 3-4, some can take up to 5 years.
How long can you keep uromastyx in a 30 gallon tank?
You can house some babies together in a 30-40 gallon tank for the first 2-3 months. After that, move them to a bigger and separate them. By separating uromastyx, you will increase their chances of eating and growing properly without any competition. Don’t introduce any loose substrate until they turn at least 4-5 months old.
