Egyptian Uromastyx

Quite easy to care for, these lizards are not territorial and can be kept in groups, although males may fight if put together.  An angry adult can cause injury with its spiny tail, but it is said that this species is a favourite because of its pleasant temperament.

Captive Environment:

As these lizards like to dig a burrow a rocky outcrop should be provided to make them feel secure.  Sand is acceptable as a substrate for adults but young may swallow it and become impacted therefore use either reptile turf or a cheaper way is to use plain paper.  An adequate size of vivarium should be provided, about 5-6ft long by 3ft high, and full spectrum lighting for 12-14 hours per day, (bulb to be changed every 9-12 months).

Temperature:

Basking area should exceed 120 degrees F, use a 125 watt incandescent bulb 12 inches from the substrate.  The cooler area of the vivarium should be 90 degrees F.  Nightime temperature should drop to mid 60’s.

Humidity:

The Aegypticus requires low humidity.

Nutritional Requirements:

Mainly herbivorous this species should have a varied diet consisting of: collard greens, kale, turnip greens, mustard greens, dandelion greens, wild flowers, soaked bird seeds, lentils and strawberries.  Insects can be offered infrequently as too many can cause gut problems.  Water should be offered once a month.