Which Pet Lizard Is Right For You?

It’s easy to fall into the trap of picking out a lizard based on how it looks and not take into account the care and attention it might need. It’s important to factor in how big the reptile might grow…initially you may see a cute baby monitor lizard, but then down the line you could end up with a huge lizard that needs more space. We’ve put together this handy guide to help you find out more about the different kinds of reptiles available and which pet lizard may be best suited to you.

Which Pet Lizard Is Right For You?

Beginner

Bearded Dragon

Lifespan: 5 -10 years Size: Up to 61cm Home Size: At least 76cm (for one) Tall or Wide Enclosure: Wide Heating: Between 27°C and 32°C Pros: Hardy, curious, mellow, easy to handle, interesting behaviours. Cons: Need a large tank, need UV reptile lighting.

 

Leopard Gecko

Lifespan: 20 years + Size: Up to 23cm Home Size: At least 38L (for a pair) Tall or Wide Enclosure: Wide Heating: Between 27°C and 32°C Pros: Interesting colouring, keen diggers, small, easy to handle, don’t need UV lighting. Cons: Tails can break off if not handled correctly, nocturnal, males fight each other, not strong climbers.

 

Green Anoles

Lifespan: 4 – 8 years Size: Up to 18cm Home Size: At least 38L (small group) Tall or Wide Enclosure: Tall Heating: Between 24°C and 29°C Pros: Cheap, keen climbers. Cons: Need UV reptile lighting, can be stressed from handling.  

Blue-Tongued Skinks

Lifespan: 15 – 20 years Size: Up to 61cm Home Size: At least 208L (for one) Tall or Wide Enclosure: Wide Heating: Between 27°C and 32°C Pros: Easygoing, likes being handled. Cons: Not strong climbers, need UV reptile lighting.  

Intermediate

Chinese Water Dragon

Lifespan: 10 – 15 years Size: Up to 91cm Home Size: At least 6ft (for one) Tall or Wide Enclosure: Wide Heating: Between 27°C and 32°C Pros: Interesting colouring, keen diggers. Cons: Rubs nose against enclosure if not given enough space.

Advanced

Green Iguanas

Lifespan: 5 – 15 years Size: Up to 6ft Home Size: At least 208L (for one) Tall or Wide Enclosure: Wide Heating: Between 27°C and 32°C Pros: Look spectacular. Cons: Can be pretty grumpy, tail whips and bites hurt.  

Chameleon

Lifespan: 5 – 10 years Size: Up to 6ft Home Size: At least 208L (for one) Tall or Wide Enclosure: Tall Heating: Between 27°C and 32°C Pros: Dazzling to look at, changes colour, interesting to watch when feeding. Cons: Easily stressed, don’t like to be handled.]]>