Sudan Plated Lizard

Kinézet hogyan ismerd fel

pikkelyek

This lizard has a stout, armoured body covered in square, plate-like keeled scales arranged in bands across the back and tail. The head shields are fused to the skull, giving it a tough, prehistoric look. The tail is broad and less than half the body length.1

Személyiség milyenek

Sudan plated lizards are generally docile and not aggressive. They can be shy at first but become tame with gentle, regular handling. They are solitary by nature and do not enjoy company of their own kind.2

Napi aktivitás mennyire mozgalmas egy nap

These diurnal lizards are active during the day and need plenty of space to explore, climb and dig. A large terrarium with rocks, hides and deep substrate is essential.2

Ápolás és gondozás a gyakorlati részek

Keep the enclosure clean by removing waste and old food daily. Change water regularly as they like to soak. No special grooming is needed, but provide a shallow water dish for drinking and bathing.2

Kezdőlap hol a legboldogabbak

A terrarium at least 48 inches long, 24 inches wide and 24 inches tall is recommended. Use 4-6 inches of substrate for digging. Provide a basking spot up to 125°F with a halogen lamp, daytime temperatures of 85-88°F, and a night-time drop to around 75°F. Include rocks, crevices and hides to mimic their natural rocky savanna home.2

Étkezés alapok mi kerül a tálba

Omnivorous. Feed a variety of insects such as crickets, mealworms, roaches and silkworms, plus leafy greens like rocket, bok choy, kale and watercress. Avoid citrus fruits. Offer occasional treats like boiled chicken or quail eggs no more than once a month. Prey items should be no wider than the space between the lizard's eyes.2

Társaság kiket szeretnek maguk körül

Sudan plated lizards are solitary and should be housed alone. In the wild they are not particularly social, though they may share areas with good resources. Do not house multiple individuals together as it causes stress and fighting.2

A történet hol kezdődött az egész

The Sudan plated lizard has been known to science since 1851, when it was first described by Duméril. It was originally placed in the genus Gerrhosaurus but later moved to Broadleysaurus. In the pet trade it is considered an intermediate-level reptile, valued for its unique armoured look and calm temperament. Many individuals in captivity are wild-caught, as captive breeding is challenging.12