Lizards make fascinating pets, and there are many species to choose from depending on your experience level and the type of pet you're looking for. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a small, easy-to-care-for species, or an experienced reptile keeper seeking a more demanding pet, there’s a lizard for pet that will suit your needs.

In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about keeping a lizard as a pet, including popular species, care tips, habitat requirements, and more. Let’s dive in!

Why Choose a Lizard for a Pet?

Lizards are known for their unique appearance, behaviors, and interesting personalities. Many species are relatively easy to care for, while others offer a more interactive and social experience. Some of the main reasons why people choose lizards as pets include:

• Low-maintenance: Compared to traditional pets like cats and dogs, lizards generally require less daily attention and maintenance.
• Unique personalities: Lizards can be very intelligent and curious, often forming bonds with their owners.
• Small space requirements: Many lizards, especially smaller species, can thrive in a compact enclosure, making them suitable for apartments or homes with limited space.

Popular Lizards for Pets

There are many species of lizards available as pets, each with its own care requirements, behavior traits, and size. Here are some of the most popular lizards for pets:

1. Bearded Dragon (Pogona vitticeps)

Size: 12-24 inches
Temperament: Friendly, social, docile
Lifespan: 10-15 years
Care Level: Beginner to Intermediate

The bearded dragon is one of the most popular lizards for pets due to its docile nature, social behavior, and relatively easy care requirements. They enjoy being handled and are known to interact with their owners. Bearded dragons are omnivores, eating a combination of insects, vegetables, and fruits.

Habitat Requirements:

• Enclosure: A 40-75 gallon tank for an adult.
• Basking temperature: 95-105°F (35-40°C).
• UVB lighting is essential for calcium metabolism.

2. Leopard Gecko (Eublepharis macularius)

Size: 8-10 inches
Temperament: Docile, easy to handle
Lifespan: 10-20 years
Care Level: Beginner

Leopard geckos are small, nocturnal lizards that are easy to care for, making them a great choice for beginner reptile enthusiasts. They are relatively low-maintenance, requiring a simple diet of insects and a warm environment. Leopard geckos don’t need UVB lighting like other reptiles, though it can be beneficial for them.

Habitat Requirements:

• Enclosure: A 20-40 gallon tank for an adult.
• Temperature: 80-90°F (27-32°C) with a basking spot of around 95°F (35°C).

3. Blue-Tongue Skink (Tiliqua spp.)

Size: 18-24 inches
Temperament: Curious, friendly
Lifespan: 20-30 years
Care Level: Intermediate

Blue-tongue skinks are large, terrestrial lizards that are well-known for their unique blue tongues. They are omnivores, and their diet includes fruits, vegetables, and protein (insects, eggs, etc.). These skinks are curious, calm, and can be quite friendly, making them a popular choice for reptile lovers.

Habitat Requirements:

• Enclosure: At least a 75-gallon tank for adults.
• Temperature: Maintain a warm basking area (95-100°F / 35-38°C) and a cooler side (75-80°F / 24-27°C).
• Humidity: Moderate, around 40-60%.

4. Crested Gecko (Correlophus ciliatus)

Size: 8-10 inches
Temperament: Calm, easy to handle
Lifespan: 10-15 years
Care Level: Beginner

The crested gecko is a nocturnal lizard that is easy to care for, making it a fantastic pet for beginners. They are known for their fringe-like crests running down their backs and tails. These geckos are insectivores but will also eat fruits and nectar. Crested geckos are social creatures and can be handled, though they tend to be more active at night.

Habitat Requirements:

• Enclosure: A 20-gallon tall tank works well for adults.
• Temperature: 72-80°F (22-27°C), avoiding temperatures above 85°F (29°C).
• Humidity: Moderate, about 50-60%.

5. Uromastyx (Uromastyx spp.)

Size: 12-24 inches
Temperament: Calm, solitary
Lifespan: 20-30 years
Care Level: Intermediate

The Uromastyx is a desert-dwelling lizard with a spiny tail, making it a very unique pet. These lizards are herbivores and primarily feed on leafy greens, seeds, and flowers. Uromastyx lizards can be very docile once acclimated to their environment and can make great pets for those with some experience in reptile care.

Habitat Requirements:

• Enclosure: A 40-75 gallon tank for an adult.
• Temperature: A basking spot of 100-110°F (38-43°C) and a cooler area around 80°F (27°C).
• Humidity: Low, around 20-30%.

6. Anole Lizard (Anolis carolinensis)

Size: 5-8 inches
Temperament: Active, solitary
Lifespan: 3-5 years
Care Level: Beginner

Anoles are small, active lizards that are great for beginners. They are social with other anoles of the same species but may not enjoy being handled. Anoles require a warm environment, a diet of insects, and plenty of branches for climbing and perching.

Habitat Requirements:

• Enclosure: A 20-gallon tank is adequate for a single anole.
• Temperature: 75-85°F (24-29°C), with a basking area of 85°F (29°C).
• Humidity: Moderate, around 50-60%.

Caring for Your Lizard Pet

Regardless of which lizard species you choose, there are some common care requirements that all lizard pets share. Here are some general tips for providing the best care:

1. Proper Enclosure Setup

• Lizards need adequate space for movement and to exhibit natural behaviors like climbing or digging.
• Use reptile-safe substrates (such as coconut coir, reptile carpet, or sand) depending on the species.
• Make sure your lizard’s enclosure includes basking spots, hiding places, and branches or rocks for climbing if needed.

2. Temperature and Lighting

• Most lizards require UVB lighting to synthesize vitamin D3 and absorb calcium, which is vital for their bone health.
• Ensure a temperature gradient in the enclosure, with a warm basking area and a cooler zone for them to regulate their body temperature.

3. Diet and Nutrition

• Lizards can be herbivores, omnivores, or insectivores, and their diet should be tailored to their species. Make sure to provide a balanced diet, including calcium and vitamin D3 supplements to prevent nutritional deficiencies.

4. Regular Cleaning

• Clean the enclosure regularly to prevent bacterial buildup. Remove uneaten food, replace soiled bedding, and clean water dishes to ensure the health and well-being of your lizard.

Are Lizards Good Pets?

Lizards can make excellent pets, especially for those who are willing to meet their specific care needs. They are fascinating, low-maintenance (compared to mammals), and can be very interactive once they become accustomed to their environment and handlers. However, it is important to choose a species that suits your experience level and the space you have available.

If you’re ready to provide the proper care and environment, a lizard for a pet can be a rewarding and captivating companion for many years.

Conclusion

Whether you're interested in a bearded dragon, a crested gecko, or a blue-tongue skink, there is a lizard for pet that can fit your lifestyle and experience level. By providing the proper care, food, and habitat, you can ensure your lizard thrives and becomes an engaging member of your family.