Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hello, We purchased a pair of horned lizards back in April. The male was the smaller and the female was quite big. Both have had good appetites and we have been feeding them the harvester ants as well as small crickets. As of the last two weeks our female looks very small and week she has not burried herself in the last 2 weeks either. She has eaten up until the last two days but did not the last feedings. We mist them and keep there aquarium at the correct temps. If anyone has any input it would be greatly appreciated. We really love this little couple and do not want to loose her. Thank you and looking forward to a reply! Tracy

Horned lizards, are a little odd in that, certain things can cause them to lock up. Misting is usually not needed, a slight drip on the snout, now and then, if they are acceptable of it, is good, and can help hydrate them.Some moisture in the sand, some, can keep the humidity up, for what they need. Try changing up the food , offer her a grasshopper, take off the back legs first.Also, other things like shedding can cause them discomfort, and cause them to act weird, not eat,not bury for a day or two. Sometimes there's nothing one can do, something causes them to "flip a switch" internally, and they won't eat and they meet their demise. Its not a good thing, none of us like to see it. Usually a changeup in food, something different can help pull them out of it. Parasites are another possible cause of "withdrawal" not feeling well, dehydration, etc....even fruit flys sometimes can pull them out of it, or a moth....try a few things....no lightening bugs.......

Thank You very much!! I will try whatever I need too!!

Sun light usually helps, and some green worms or a moth may trigger her>