Plated Lizards Temperature/Humidity: Ideal daytime temperature for plated lizards should range between 70 and 85 degrees. Nightime temperature should remain between 60-75 degrees. Additionally, a basking lamp should be placed at one end of the enclosure to maintain a local temperature of 100-110 degrees. The humidity for these lizards should be maintained at 55 percent or higher. 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 assist in maintaining an accurate schedule of light periods.

Feeding/Watering: Plated lizards are omnivorous (diet consists of both plant and animal matter). So a diet of a variety of vitamin/calcium dusted insects such as crickets, mealworms, earthworms, superworms and waxworms as well as offering vegetables and some fruits is recommended. Suggested vegetables include, but are not limited to: kale, collard greens, legumes, carrots, squash, and berries. In addition to vegetables and insects as the majority of the diet, high quality, prepared foods such as canned, low-fat dog food can be mixed in with vegetables. A shallow water bowl should be provided and changed daily. Adults should be fed 3-4 times per week; some juveniles can be fed twice daily during their growing period. Always remove prepared food four hours after it is offered to prevent spoilage.

Habitat/Housing: Successful permanent maintenance requires at least a 30 gallon terrarium. A screen lid is essential for proper air exchange. The enclosure must include a basking area, a suitable hiding area, and a "cool" area to allow for thermoregulation. Unless breeding is desired, plated lizards are best kept singularly. Substrate

(Bedding): A mixture of Repti-Bark and Bed-A-Beast is an ideal substrate for plated lizard terrariums as most plated lizards love to burrow. 2" to 3" inches of this mixture is required to encourage their natural burrowing instinct. The substrate should be kept moist to maintain an even humidity level, but changed regularly to avoid bacterial growth.

Traits: Length from 18 to 28" Most plated lizards will readily tame down with patience and frequent gentle handling. Children should only handle these lizards in the company of an adult.