Geographical Region

Africa, India, Pakistan and Iran

Habitat

Rocky plains, steppes and savannahs and desert areas

Colour

Sandy brown base colour with colourful patterning and spotting

Size

Spp depending, 10 – 30 inches

Captive Environment

More floor space the better as these do not climb but enjoy basking and burrowing

36l x 24d x 15h for a pair

48l x 24d x 14h for a trio/quad

Aspen or reptile hemp bedding are used as they lower the risk of compaction, will retain heat and allow burrowing, Provide hides all over the floor, especially one directly under the basking spot, also a small water bowl for occasional drinking.

Heating

There is one simple rule with Uromastyx (Bake Them) these guys like it hot. Ambient temperature of at least 90°F, with a basking temperature between 110 - 115°F. night time drop to 70 - 75°F. A high wattage Exo-Terra bulb such as a Sunglo or tight beam can be used to reach these high temperatures depending on vivarium size, 75w and above

Lighting requirements

Ultraviolet light is essential for this species, as it is needed to help metabolise calcium from its diet. Without this the lizard will develop metabolic bone disease and will die. A UV tube half the length of the vivarium is required to allow multiple basking areas. Repti-Glo 10% tubes are required. The lizard needs to be able to get within 6 – 8-inches to gain full effects

Photoperiod

Autumn/winter – 12 hours light – 12 hours dark.

Spring/summer – 14 hours light – 10 hours dark.

Feeding

95% herbivorous – 5% insectivorous, lambs lettuce, British watercress, wild rocket, dandelion, clover, broccoli, peas, sweetcorn, grated carrot and apple peeling as well as a small amount of millet and lentils. Use a supplement like repton or reptivite at least twice weekly on food

Sexing

Males are usually larger in appearance, thicker set heads as well as hemi-penal swelling.

Shedding

These Lizards shed their skin almost continually, but always in small pieces which they are known to eat to gain more nutrition.