BASIC CAPTIVE CARE OF THE SUDAN PLATED LIZARD

BASIC CAPTIVE CARE OF THE SUDAN PLATED LIZARD

Common Name: Sudan Plated Lizard
Scientific Name: Gerrhosaurus major
Distribution: Eastern & Southern Africa
Size: 14" - 20"


NATURAL HABITAT:
Found in rocky areas of semi-deserts, dry brush and savannas.
When captive, adults require a 50" x 18" x 12" vivarium.


BEHAVIOR:
Most will become tame with regular handling.
Can be difficult to handle at first.
Supply dark hiding places for cover.


CAPTIVE ENVIRONMENT:
Use full spectrum 5% UVB lighting 12-14 hours per day.
Provide a basking area with access to a cooler area.
Supply several basking areas of logs, rocks.
Provide hiding places (cork bark) for cover.
Substrate: Orchid bark or beech chips.


TEMPERATURE:
Daytime temperature should be:
basking area 90 degrees F.
cool area 75 degrees F.
Night temperatures should range between 70-75 degrees F.
Use a reptile heat mat for 24-hour ground heat inside
the vivarium.


HUMIDITY:
This lizard requires only low levels of humidity.


WATER REQUIREMENTS:
Requires only a small water dish for drinking.


NUTRITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
This Lizard eats both meat and vegetation.
Will take crickets, locust, mealworms and waxworms.
Will take small mammals such as pinkie mice.
Likes dark greens mustard, turnip, dandelions
(leaves & Flowers), also green beans, sprouts,
runner beans. Also use a good vitamin supplement.