Reptile & Amphibian Forums

My daughter and I purchased a Uro today at a local herp show. Its a Nigerian Uro (as advertised by vendor who was selling a red and yellow phase). What species is the Nigerian?? Apparently they don't get huge, maybe 10 inches or so according to the vendor.

I am reading that the hot side needs to be REAL hot, like 120 degrees F. Right now it has a heat lamp (100W red bulb), and a heating pad under the same end set on about medium. Their is a basking rock on the hot side so it can climb up closer to lamp if need be. Its in a 20 gallon long tank with screen top.

Any info on proper care, and exactly what species a Nigerian is to properly research more in depth knowledge would be appreciated!! I am a snake guy, but not so hot with lizards.

Wish us luck with the new and interesting creature!!!

I'm not expert but here is a breif rundown.

1) Get a bigger tank. 20 gallon is WAAAAAAY to small. Minimum 50 gallon

2) Get rid of the heating pad.

3) Get a good digital thermometer to check your temps. You need a good gradiant which you will not get in your 20 gallon. Check deerfernfarms.com for proper temps. My Nigerians have a 110f-140f basking spots. Normally they sit on the 140f area.

4) Nigerian = Geyri

I'm sure some of the more experienced people here can help you out better. Congrats and good luck.

Thanks for the temp info. Need more heat for sure. Why get rid of the pad?? Is it better to just have basking heat from above?

Thanks for the ID info as well. Should help us research a bit better as far as species specific advice.

We are really enjoying "Spike", and hope he has a long and happy stay with us.

I've read from other people on this forum that heating pads can cause burns and are not recommended. This is not from personnal experience, just info gathered from here.

Post a pic is you get a chance.