Reptile & Amphibian Forums

My C. similis is 10 years old and I am hoping she has another 5 or more years left in her.
She is tame as can be and I have had her since she was a few weeks old.
John Styner

Hello John,
I returned to Belize after ten years away and saw what appeared to be some of the same ctenosaur animals that were there 10 years ago. I don't have any supporting literature but I'd guess 20-40 years for a life span... Anyone have or had one this old in captivity here? best to you- Mike

I have been catching them for years and can tell you that they can live to be more than 25 years old in the wild. God made these lizard very strong and almost indestructible as adults when they are well acclimated. So with proper care, that life span can be increased significantly in captivity especially with all the latest husbandry equipment and veterinarian assistance there is around today. A pleasurable environment, collectively provided with a proper diet consisting of leafy greens, a moderate calcium intake, and lots of warmth and UVB lighting should keep your Ctenosaura Similis around for a long time.

Manny

Thanks for the info.

Wow that is some male your holding.

I have a Gasparilla Island female. Tame as can be. Best reptile I have ever had in the 35 years I have been keeping lizards.

Lately, starting 3 weeks ago she has been keeping her mouth open about a quarter inch from time to time. I am sure it is not from aggression or heat.

Last week I took her to the vet that spayed her 8 years ago and he could not find anything wrong. He said she is very healthy. He didn't feel the need to xray her but he did a stool examination and it was clean.

However she has not come out of her hide spot for 3 days now. She never did that before.

I am worried. She is 10 years old now and I want to keep her for another 15 if possible.

John Styner