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Good pet for a lizard beginner?

tbone Jun 10, 2003 05:57 PM

Ide like some suggestions for a good sized lizard from two to three feet, that can be personable, and maybe tamed completely. Im not going to run right out and buy one, ive just been thinking about getting a new herp and wondered what my options would be. I have experience with snakes but not lizards as this would be my first one.TIA
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Replies (5)

the nerve Jun 10, 2003 11:22 PM

My recommendation would be a bearded dragon. They are medium size lizards that typically reach about 18 inches long, although the rare individual will reach 2 feet. They are hardy and make good beginner lizards. They eat crickets and mixed greens and vegetables. They need at least a 40 gallon tank as adults, with a basking spot that reaches 95-105 degrees and UV light.

They are also very tame and tolerant of handling. My bearded dragon is content to sit on my shoulder for extended periods, he also likes to run around and explore. Very docile, good eater, never bit me.

Although they're a bit smaller then what you specified, do your research and you'll find that they might be a good lizard for you.

tbone Jun 11, 2003 02:06 PM

In a 75g(48" by 18" Could i keep a trio or pair? I would like to breed what ever i decide to get and i know bearded are supposed to be pretty easy.

Do you have any other suggestions for animals? Beardeds seem to common, but they must be common for a reason. Thanks

Chrysemys Jun 12, 2003 09:00 AM

in a 75gal you could only fit one. Beardies get pretty big and males are territorial. If you have a male and a female in a small an enclosure the male will constantly harass the female leading to problems.
Chris D.

EastlandPets Jun 26, 2003 12:23 AM

Another good beginner lizard that basically meets your requirements is the Uromastyx. from what i've heard, they're a little more difficult to breed, but they seem much more laid back than beardeds, so you could probably keep a pair in a 75.
-kyle
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Edited on December 20, 2003 at 19:53:20 by phwyvern.

WingedWolfPsion Jun 27, 2003 01:36 AM

My first thought is "bearded dragon". A bit on the small side for your size criteria, though. They are fairly easy to care for, eating insects and some vegetation and flowers (iguana salad, in smaller quantities). They are also generally very friendly, and most become tame and personable. Desert species.

Second thought is blue-tongued skink. Another omnivore, eats more vegetation than the beardie. Often become dog-tame to the point where they'll follow you around looking for a treat. <G>

These are the only two animals in the medium-size category that I can think of as good beginner lizards.