Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi everyone,

I have a question. My mali uro, who i've had for a good 4-5 years now, eats a diet of mostly escarole and chicory, with a dish of dried split peas and lentils which is always out for him to pick at, since he seems to love them so much. Is this safe for him to eat? I'm reading alot about the binding effects of peas and I don't want to cause a problem. He seems to be a very picky eater, and if I mix his greens with anything he doesn't seem to go for them. Does anyone have any suggestions? He's been eating this same diet the whole time and I just hope he's getting all his nutrients and everything.

Thanks!
Jacki and Scooter

I'd say that as long as he's getting the required variety of fresh greens, I'd go ahead and leave the peas and lentils for him. I've always left both for my uros and they've always been healthy for their 1 year life span.

Just kidding, but I do leave them in their dry food mix, without any problems. After 4-5 years, I'd say you're doing ok, though I'm a fan of more of a variety of greens.

Hope that helps.
-Jim
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2.1 - Rocky, Runako, and RoxyIII (my care sheets)

i was once told by a pretty reputable breeder mr doug dix that Peas bind several minerals (calcium and zinc being two of the biggies) plus they are high in purines which can be hard on the kidneys If you dust the peas EVERY time with Miner-AL Indoor and Uromastyx Dust, you cover most of the binding issues. Just make sure leafy greens are a majority of the diet.
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vonnie
***There is no pleasure in having nothing to do; the fun is in having lots to do and not doing it. Mary Wilson Little ***

I also have had a saucer of dried lentils and split peas in my uro's tanks, at all times for a snack for over 5 years.

Would have to agree to add more variety to your salads. Different greens, and veggies, and even fruits, and some edible flowers when available!
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Eve / PHEve