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Lava Lizards General Info: Adult length from 8 to 10". Lava lizards
come in a variety of beautiful colors, shapes and sizes. These small lizards
are great as an introduction to reptiles for children. Children should
always be supervised by an adult when interacting with any animal. General
Info: Ideal daytime temperature for these lizards should range between
70 and 85 degrees. Additionally, a basking lamp should be used to maintain
a local temperature of 90 to 95 degrees. Nighttime temperature should
remain between 60 and 75 degrees. The humidity for these lizards should
be kept between 45-55 percent.
Lighting: All diurnal lizards (mainly active during the day) require
ultraviolet lighting to maintain good health. Ultraviolet lighting is
recommended for 12-14 hours per day. The use of a timer will help to maintain
an accurate lighting schedule.
Feeding/Watering: Lava lizards are insectivorous (eat mainly insects).
Insects should be dusted with a vitamin/calcium powder. Suggested insects
are: crickets, mealworms, superworms, and waxworms. A shallow water bowl
is necessary to keep these lizards in optimum health. Water should be
changed daily.
Habitat/Housing: Individuals can be maintained in a 15-20 gallon terrarium.
A screen lid is essential for proper air exchange. Lava lizards are best
kept singularly. However, for multiple pets, increase habitat size accordingly
to ensure each lizard has plenty of space to move about and not interfere
with tankmates. An undertank heater should be placed on the same end of
the tank as the basking lamp. Multiple climbing branches are necessary
as well as a shelter for hiding, especially if multiple pets are in the
same enclosure. Misting the habitat occasionally will help maintain proper
humidity levels and allow for these lizards to intake water in a manner
to which they are accustomed. Substrate
(Bedding): 2" to 3" inches of Repti-Bark is recommended for lava lizard
terrariums. Cork bark can be added as low hiding areas, especially if
more than one pet is maintained within the enclosure.
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