World Lizard Day

According to the Encyclopdia Brittanica online, a lizard is defined as: "Any of about 3,000 species of reptiles constituting the suborder Sauria. They are most diverse and abundant in the tropics but are found from the Arctic Circle (one species) to southern Africa, South America, and Australia. Like snakes, lizards have scales, paired male copulatory organs, and a flexible skull. Typical lizards have a moderately cylindrical body, four well-developed legs (although some lizards are legless), a tail slightly longer than the head and body combined, and movable lower eyelids. They range in size from 1-in. (3-cm) geckos to the 10-ft (3-m) Komodo dragon, but most are about 12 in. (30 cm) long. Ornamentation includes crests on the head, back, or tail; spines; brightly coloured throat fans; and throat frills. Most species feed on insects and rodents, but some, such as the iguana, eat plants."

As with any pet, you must do a fair amount of research before diving into lizard ownership. You must be prepared for what you are getting yourself into. The lizard you choose may be inexpensive, but what will it take to keep him happy and thriving? The necessary equipment may not be inexpensive, it may not even be easy. (For instance- some lizard's toenails can get quite sharp and require regular clipping. Lizards also have some very specific needs for their housing, lighting, temperature, and feeding. Such as:

Housing: for some, a 15-20 gallon tank will suffice; others must have a 40 or 55 gallon one

Substrate & Cage Furnishings: sand is not as good a choice as it would seem (it can actually be quite harmful to a number of species if they eat it) some better choices, depending on breed are wood shavings, mulch, newspaper, peat moss and soil with or without a layer of bark, indoor outdoor carpet; sturdy rocks, half logs, and branches, commercial reptile caves and simple cardboard boxes are all options for different breeds to keep them interested.

Lighting: some require special fluorescent bulbs that run the length of the tank, for some ambient daylight will suffice; also, there are some special needs that will require specialty UVA or UVB lighting set ups; day and night temperature needs can also be fairly specific by species and most all will require a source of gradient heat to use as they choose

Feeding: a variety of crickets, waxworms, mealworms, pinkie mice, green leafy vegetables, squash, carrots, beans, peas, peppers, apples, grapes, and some other fruits can also be okay

Since I think it is important, I am going to repeat that you need to do research before selecting a lizard for a pet. Your local pet store can give you some information, but please do not rely on them as your sole source. I'm not saying that they will mislead you intentionally, just that they may not be an expert. You also must understand how big it is possible for your chosen lizard to get: chameleons will stay small; iguanas can get up to five or more feet long. Use one of the books I have highlighted in this lens, or check out some of the information links as good starting resources. That being said (twice), if you are still sure you are prepared to have a lizard for a pet, then go for it. And, enjoy your very cool new pet!! (And, don't forget to celebrate his day...)

This lens was chosen for Lens Of The Day on August 14, 2007.

Thanks to all at Squidoo!!

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