Can you keep a collared lizard as a pet?

Collared lizards are not common pets, and they are generally not very handleable, but they do make a good display species for someone looking for a small, active lizard.

What habitat do collared lizards live in?

Habitat. Collared lizards are found in rocky areas of a variety of habitats: pinyon-juniper, sagebrush, desertscrub, and desert grassland. They are usually in areas with open vegetation.

What size tank does a collared lizard need?

40 gallons
A single collared lizard should be housed in no smaller than a 36” x 18” x 18” enclosure (~40 gallons). However, collared lizards are very active lizards, so if you can provide a larger enclosure, do it! Cohabitation is optional.

What do you need for a collared lizard?

Collared lizards, as with most pets, require a clean environment to thrive. We recommend a spot clean as often as possible (every day) and a full clean every 4 weeks or so. If you are keeping the lizard in a bio-active enclosure you can spot clean and monitor the enclosure.

Do collared lizards bite?

As a cautionary note, although not venomous, collared lizards can inflict a painful bite that usually breaks the skin of not handled carefully. Their bright coloration and the fact they can be easily captured makes them attractive candidates for pets.

Do collared lizards drink water?

Watering – Always provide a bowl of fresh drinking water. Collared lizards don’t drink often, however providing a water bowl is recommended. Lighting – Since this is a diurnal species, it requires two light bulbs.

Do collared lizards make noise?

Collared lizards are fast runners, and may run bipedally when escaping from potential predators (or threatening herpetologists). The “mountain boomer” as they are known colloquially is the state reptile of Oklahoma. Why they are called “mountain boomer” is a mystery because they do not make noises.

How often do collared lizards eat?

Baby and juvenile collared lizard can be fed as much as 2-3 times a day, while adults can be fed 1-2 times a day or as needed to maintain desired weight. It is important to supplement your collared lizard’s food with calcium and vitamin dustings to provide additional nutrients.

Why won’t my collared lizard eat?

Seasonal Changes. Molting, changes in the light and hormones can all cause your lizard to stop eating or to eat much less than usual. Molting occurs once or twice a year, depending on the species. Your lizard is likely to go into hiding and avoid food for a few days.

Do collared lizards climb?

Eastern collared lizards are alert and wary animals as well as impressive and beautiful creatures. Collared lizards may bite, but, despite their wariness, captive collared lizards can become quite tame with gentle, slow and persistent overtures. They can and will often climb confidently into your hand and up your arm.

How do you know if a lizard is hungry?

Most lizards don’t have huge appetites and eat sparingly, which can make it difficult to tell if your lizard is eating like he should — especially if he’s housed in a group. The two best ways to tell whether he’s eating are to weigh him regularly and look for feces.