Post
by Mike » Sat May 25, 2013 1:03 am
They are really easy and do make really good pets. They are considered the "lap dogs" of the reptile world.
They do have some basic but easy to meet needs.
They are from the Australian outback so need a similar set up. I use sand from my local golf course but kids play sand works well($3). They do need heat in the form of lighting to keep them warm and to metabolize their food. I use a cheap shop clamp light from Home Depot for about $7. They really need a reptile lightbulb that puts out UVA/UVB rays that help them grow. These run about $20-$30 and are one of the more expensive investments for them but it also improves their colors and breeding response. I have seen plenty that have led long and healthy lifes without these lights but it is agreed that they are better off with them. It simulates the natural sun rays.
I keep mine in big rubbermaid style totes that are open on top but most people would rather have a nice aquarium to watch them. As babies a ten gallon would work but within a year you would want something bigger. They like to climb so driftwood and branches and rocks are good.
They are omnivorous so eat insects and veggies. This makes them popular because you don't have to rely on live insects, you can give them dark leafy greens and other veggies. I prefer collard greens, kale, mustard greens, spinach and the likes(not lettuce that's not healthy). As babies insects are more preferred because they are growing but I start my babies of veggies so they are used to them early. Mealworms and crickets are the common sources of food.
I just ordered a bunch of mealworms online and got 1000 delivered to my door for $18 shipped. You can keep these in oatmeal and they will reproduce on their own. I plan on always having melworms around and I actually order crickets from a local breeder but you can get them locally at any feeders supply or similar petshop. You can also feed any insects you find around the yard during the summer assuming they aren't pesticide ridden or poisonous. If I find small grasshoppers or crickets under a rock I throw them in the cage as a treat.
They actually learn and will learn who their caregiver is and will come to you for food as they get older. They will eat from your hands and are not aggressive at all. They are the most popular pet lizard in the world for a reason. They are built like a tank and kids are not going to hurt them. They are not fragile like some other lizards. They won't drop their tails like a gecko or skink.
Coach, text me and bring the little ones over to see them. The bigger ones will give you an idea of what to expect as they grow.
