http://www.tortoisetrust.org/articles/uromastyx.html



I have read several other studies that indicated the same for other species of uromastyx as well. They are sold as 'vegetarian' herps mostly because they do primarily eat vegetation, but people disregard the fact that they do eat animal protein. Actually, most people would be surprised to find out that most 'vegetarian' reptiles indulge in animal protein from time to time. Iguanas have been known to eat mice and birds in the wild. Tortoises have been known to feast on carcasses and eat worms and other slow insects. Some have even claimed the certain species of tortoise will hunt and kill small rodents.



Yes, uromastyx are primarily vegetarians. Will they do fine on a vegetarian diet? Most likely. Will they do good if you give them insects every now and then? Most likely. You will probably see an increase in growth.



Gout and renal failure are more indicative of poor environmental conditions, and perhaps feeding excessive protein to an animal that is primarily vegetarian will have an effect, but for the most part these are caused by chronic dehydration.

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