Long Tail lizard

Common Name: Long Tail lizard

Latin Name: Takydromas sexlineatus

Long Tail Grass Lizard

Native to: Southeast Asia

Size: 6-8 inches long with ¾ of the length being the tail

Life span: If taken care of properly, five years or more.

General Appearance: The overall color is brown with a possible greenish hue. There are stripes going down the long tail lizard’s back that is normally brown with white and black bordering the stripes. Their tail is usually about ¾ of the length. The underside is usually creamy white. They have a triangular head.

Housing Requirements:

Enclosure: A minimum of a 15-gallon enclosure for a single lizard. It is important to have a secure fitting screen top for air exchange.

Temperature: The ambient temperature should be 75° - 85° F. The basking site should be 90° - 95° F. During the night the temperatures can fall to 65° - 70° F.

Heat/Light: Because long tail lizards are awake during the day it is important to use a full spectrum bulb. Ceramic emitters, under the tank heat mat, and incandescent bulbs can be used to achieve proper temperatures. Hot rocks are not recommended.

Substrate: Coconut fiber, peat moss, bark chips, sterilized soil and paper towels are all considered to be suitable bedding.

Environment: Long tail lizards are ground dwelling lizards and should mimic a sparse forest habitat. Plenty of hiding spots and branches to climb on should be provided. They should have about 70% humidity in their tank.

Diet: Gut loaded crickets, waxworms, mealworms, butter worms, red wigglers, and earthworms can all be fed to the long tail lizard 3 times a week.

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