Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hello
I am looking for a good site that will show the different species and locales.
Also any legal issues with keeping Chucks?
Mike

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Mike's Monitors!

I'm not aware of any good sites. Amphibians and Reptiles of Baja California, Including Its Pacific Islands and the Islands in the Sea of Cortés by L. Lee Grismer is the only source of photos I've come across for some of the island endemics. This site is the best source of husbandry info. If the search function doesn't yeild the desired results, feel free to ask, there's usually someone lurking with a ready answer.

If you're in a state where chuckwallas are native, you'll need to research the local fish and game / hunting regs to see what rules may govern chuck keeping/collection.

If you're thinking of keeping San Esteban Island chuckwallas, you'll likely need a permit from the US Fish and Wildlife Service.

-Alice

Hey, Alice! Good to see you again! How are Gracie and Rigel?

Gracie and Rigel are doing great! Rigel's springtime overtures were unsuccessful, but I'm all set for next year in case he meets with more success. I've really got to take some new pictures.

-Alice

I would start by checking out the "bag and possession" laws in your state before catching any to keep as captives. Also, know that it illegal to catch one then release it back to the wild. In California you will only need a fishing license to catch a limit of two. If you move them across state lines you may need other permits.

Wild caught chucks can be incredibly difficult to keep. Scan through the posts here... this seems to be the only place with good info, and useful support.

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I would highly recommend a captive bred specimen after dealing with two wild caught lizards. Look into S. Hispidus, the "Angel Island Chuckwalla". Look up Central Coast Reptiles, or Calico Chuck. Both offer S. Hispidus, and S.Varius X S. Hispidus hybrids. (Correct me if I'm wrong.) This also takes pressure off of the wild populations. If I was to do it again, I'd go with a captive born San Esteban Island Chuckwalla.

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My only suggestions for a cage setup would be... Use wood and screen!! An aquarium will hold too much humidity even with an open top. Humidity and Chuckwallas S. Ater = skin sores, fungus, and respiratory problems. Also, many people use a ton of UVB lights which can cause retinal damage... A UVA 5.0 & UVB 10.0 works great for me and all my little critters. I also find that my chucks are super alert when I use a fan to circulate the air.
I would also say that a minimum size cage should be 4'W X 2'D X 3'H. This will allow you to simulate a good rock pile, and high basking spot, while keeping a much cooler floor.

I'm sure everyone here has a technique that works for them and each lizard will have it's own personality, and respond differently to the care provided. My chucks are by far more time consuming than any reptile I've ever had, and I've had quite a few. Be prepared before you get one, and things will go well.

Just my "nickel"!!
-Kory