Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have some jeweled lacertas (lacerta lapidus) that I bought about a year ago. They were about 4-6 inches long, including their tails, when I got them. I've raised them under UV lights, varied their insect intake, provided vits/calcium, etc. Not long ago, I noticed one of them acting abnormally. He looks ok, but when I put feed in, he swings his head, seemingly uncontrolably, in trying to catch the insects. It bobs up and down, and swings side to side (imagine a drunk lizard...). The female in there with him was fine, though. But, yesterday, I've noticed she's doing the same now. I've got two others in separate enclousures, and they are fine (so far). Anyone have any idea what is causing this and how to correct it, if possible? Their stools appear normal, no abnormal discharges or other signs of disease.

Thanks!!!

It's really hard to guess what is going on. This could be behavior related to sexual maturity, or it could be neurological... I'd assume it to be toxin related since all are affected.

Do the periods of normal motor control outweigh the periods of this activity? How do they act when in your hand or when seperated? If you've concluded that this is definately an illness and not behavior related, then keep them well hydrated, with fresh air, in a new enclosure. If this continues or gets worse, then off to the vet they go.

Ian

I put them into another enclosure. I also emailed Bert Langerwerf(Not sure of his last name!!!), who is a herp expert and the guy I bought them from. Even he wasn't sure. He said he thinks he heard of something similar years ago. They 'bobble' when they move or look around. It's almost as though the male has a twisted neck, if that makes sense. The female is doing the same to a lesser degree. They both appear healthy otherwise, good weight, etc. Bert did say if I have full-spectrum lights on them, I shouldn't have to supplement D3, etc. He also said he only feeds his insects veggies, especially ones with a lot of caroteine, etc., but doesn't gut-load them with vites, either. I hadn't been supplementing them (insects or herps) much because of the full-spectrum for that reason, but began to when the male started doing this, thinking it was a deficiency. It appears neurological in origin to me. Unfortunately, we live in the boonies of the Ozarks of Missouri. The only vets barely know how to treat common pets. There is a Vet School in Columbia, MO, but that's a looonnnggg drive. I might try contacting them, though, by phone or email.

Thanks! Vicki