Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I've been told that my cordylus warreni is really a cordylus mossambicus. Anyhow, he's in a 36"X18" tank on sand, with hides and a steady rock pile and some plastic plants. He's got a heat lamp, and a full spectrum flourescent tube. Also, a small water dish and a food dish. He hasn't eaten since I brought him home though. I've put in crickets, a mealworm, a waxworm, and some greens. I think the crickets ate some of the greens and that's it.

Any idea why he won't eat? I'm very concerned. He's been set up for about a week, without being handled or anything. Am I feeding the right stuff?

Do any of you care for these guys? Could you describe or send a pic of your set up? What do you feed?

Thanks!

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Nicki and...

0.0.2 Uromastyx geyri (Saharan Uromastyx) - Dragon and Belle
1.1.0 Uromastyx dispar maliensis (Mali Uromastyx) - Spike and Lizzy
1.0.0 Cordylus mossambicus (Girdled Lizard)
1.0.0 Liasis mackloti savuensis (Savu python) - Bazzi
1.0.0 Lampropeltis mexicana thayeri (Variable (Thayer’s) Kingsnake) - Kavi
0.0.1 Lampropeltis triangulum campbelli (Pueblan Milksnake) - Callia
0.2.0 Thamnophis sirtalis parietalis (Red-Sided Garter Snakes) - Spot and Fluffy
0.2.0 Bufo Paracnemis (Roccoco Toads) - Red and Miss Hissy

Ontario, Canada

Hello Nikki:
Cordyus and Pseudocordylus are very similar in their habits. Their common names are Sungazers because of their basking behavior in extreme heat. These lizards are fascinating but they can be a little challenging. I have bred several species over the years.
The one thing I have noticed about them is that they usually will set up residence along elevated rock ledges as opposed to hiding under rocks. Building a rock shelf with hiding places would be preferred to just rocks for basking. They can easily look out over the landscape for potential prey from a secure, elevated platform.
Your lizard looks very healthy from the picture and I wouldn't panic just yet. I've seen these lizards take a couple weeks to settle in before eating regularly. Some Cordylids will also eat small amounts of fruits and veggies. Strawberries are colorful and are occasionally eaten. Your lighting sounds perfect for the lizard.
I hope this info helps. Keep us posted as to how the lizard does.
Good Luck!!!