Dwarf Alligator Lizard General Info: Length up to 6". Dwarf alligator lizards are native to cloud forests and thrive in planted terrariums. Consider purchasing live plants to enhance the lizard's environment. Not only are live plants attractive, they help to maintain proper humidity levels within the terrarium.

Temperature/Humidity: Ideal daytime temperature for these lizards should range between 70 and 75 degrees. Additionally, a basking area should be used on one end of the enclosure to maintain a local temperature of 80-85 degrees. This is best achieved with an under-tank heater or heat rock. Nighttime temperature should remain between 60 and 70 degrees. The humidity for these lizards should be kept at or near 70 percent. Lighting: All diurnal (mainly active during the day) lizards require ultraviolet lighting to maintain good health. Ultraviolet lighting is recommended for 12 hours per day. The use of a timer will assist in maintaining an accurate schedule of light periods.

Feeding/Watering: Dwarf alligator lizards are mainly insectivorous (insects are the majority of diet). Therefore, they do well on a diet consisting of a variety of vitamin/calcium dusted insects such as crickets, mealworms and waxworms. Worms, such as red wigglers, butterworms, and earthworms can also be offered. Adults should be fed 3-4 times per week, some juveniles can be fed twice daily during their growing period.

Habitat/Housing: Successful permanent maintenance requires at least a 10 gallon terrarium. A screen lid is essential for proper air exchange. The enclosure must include a basking area, hiding space (preferably made of rocks), and a "cool" area to allow for thermoregulation. Unless breeding is desired, these lizards are best kept singularly. Substrate

(Bedding): Bed-A-Beast is an ideal substrate for dwarf alligator lizard terrariums. It is essential that the humidity is strictly maintained with these reptiles. The substrate should be kept moist but changed frequently to avoid bacterial growth.