Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi everyone!

I have been thinking about adding a new member to my family, and uros seem really great. They really are interesting, beautiful animals. I have read the care sheets here on kingsnake, and so far a uro seems like it would fit in nicely. The pet store near my house has two adult uros, but truthfully they are not in the best of shape. They are in a tiny tank which is usually really dirty. I frequent this pet store often, and it seems like the uros are only fed birdseed. I was wondering if birdseed is a healthy staple food for uros? I don't want to buy a uro from a pet store, but I am also unsure about the saftey and reliablity of buying one online. Does anyone out there know of any good breaders in California? I would hate to put an animal through the stress of being shipped across the country.

Thanks for your help,
Amber

Hi there. First birdseed yes can be given, but NOT as a staple. They need veggies for nutrients and for moisture (since they normally do not need a water dish..they get hydrated from baths and the food). That could be why those ones in the store are so ill. Probably so dehydrated.

As far as a good place to buy...DeerFernfarms here online as well as Lindsay Pike are very reputable breeders who you can be assured to get a very healthy uro (and maybe even cheaper than in the store!) Deer Fern is in Washington State but I'm not sure about Lindsay. I beleive their links are posted on this site.

I also feel that this store should be investigated by a humane agent in your area. They need to get it together before buying and selling uro's if they have no idea what to do. You yourself could print out some caresheets online and take it to them and see if they are willing to fix the problem. some stores are just ignorant of the proper care of alot of reptiles but aren't intentionally trying to hurt them.

good luck!
Renee

is in florida, the tampa area.
-----
1.2 Mali Uromastyx (Ricky, Quinn, Anna)
1.1 Yellow Ackies (Eddie, Roxie)
1.0 Timor (Zealot)

Emily
www.egomantra.com/npoh

Thanks for the reply.

I will defintly print out some care sheets for that pet store. I know the lady that owns it, she specializes in birds but they carry a few reptiles. I can't stand to see any animal being mistreated, especially if it is due to the ignorance of people.

I am moving in august, so I plan to wait until I am moved in before I get a uro. But, I will continue to do research on them before I buy one. Thanks again.

Amber

Yes, as Renee said, you really should print out a care sheet and give it to the lady. I had to go through that with an Animal House. Give her some time to get her uromastyx in the right conditions than you tell her you'll call the humane society to come and check it out. If you can, point out what is wrong about it to her..

And yeah, Lindsay and Doug are great.