Posted by:
AlteredMind99
at Mon Nov 21 14:19:36 2005 [ Email Message ] [ Show All Posts by AlteredMind99 ]
Uromastyx are definately a lot bigger and considerably more difficult than any of the species you have owned before, but that doesnt mean you arent ready.
I just got my first Uro recently, and before i did, i was asking myself the same questions...was i ready to care for a uro? I have been keeping herps for about 5 years and have owned a variety of animals, including beardies, which are similar in care to uros. But still, i was nervous. The best thing to do in this situation is do as much reading and research on uros as possible, and make sure you are completely ready for one.
Two big things to consider are space and cost....
Most adult Uros (there is variation amoung the species Egyptian uros get 3ft!!) are about 14-17inches, they are very active and require a tank size of at least 75gallons. So, can you find space for a tank that big? Of course, they can be started in smaller tanks, a 40gallon breeder is a great starter tank.
They also require expensive lighting, and have complex dietary needs. Make sure you do research into that before getting one as well.
You also have to make sure you have the money on hand (after you have bought the set up and the animal) to cover vet fee's.
Uros are not as widely bred and available as animals such as Leopard geckos, so you also need to be sure you find a good healthy captive bred individual that is eating well.
I researched everything i could about uros for a few months before i got one, i spent 2-3weeks setting up the tank and making sure the temps were correct, plus gathering additional supplies. It was a long process, but it paid off, because i brought home my little Mali Uro and he is a blast! Take your time, do a lot of reading, and you will be able to say for sure whether or not you are ready for a Uro 
Check deerfernfarms.com they have excellent care sheets!
By the way, i havent been on the forums as much lately...how is your leos leg doing? Is it all better?
Mim ----- 0.1 Bearded dragon (Hannabil) 0.1 mexican Black kingsnake (Morticia) 2.1 Leopard Gecko's (Pogo,Jeffrey Nothing, Louise) 0.0.1 Tokay Gecko 0.0.1 Reverse Okeetee Corn (Autumn) 1.0 Blood Red Corn (Virus) 0.0.1 Mali Uromastyx (Scuttle) 0.1 Bullmastiff (Asha) 4.1 Cats (Poe, Tucker, Abhid, Felicity, Emmy)
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