Western
New York Herpetological Society
www.wnyherp.org
© 2001 -
2002 by Western New York Herpetological Society
This
document is for guidance only and should not be used as the sole source of
information. New information is being developed daily. It is recommended that a
concerted effort be made to maintain up-to-date knowledge of the animals of interest.
Common
Name:
Curly Tail Lizard
Latin
name: Leiocephalux
sp. Tropidurus sp
Native
to:
Peru, the Caribbean, and Cuba
Size:
4-7 inches
Life
span:
5-8 years
General
appearance:
There are about 20 species that are covered in this
group. Their name comes from the manner in which they rapidly twitch their
tail. In general, they have a robust body with several different colors. Some
species have a dorsal crest.
Housing
requirements:
Enclosure:
A minimum of a 15-gallon enclosure with a secure
lid. Multiple climbing branches and a shelter for hiding should be provided.
Temperature:
Daytime temperature should be maintained between
80°- 85°F. The basking area should be maintained between 88°-90°F. Nighttime
temperatures should be maintained between 75°-77°F.
Heat/Light:
UVB lighting should be provided between 8-12 hours a
day. The use of a timer can aid in proper lighting cycle. Ceramic emitters and
infrared night-light can be used to maintain proper temperature. Hot rocks are
not recommended.
Substrate:
Reptibark®, Bed a Beast®, sphagnum moss, also mixing
tropical play sand and peat moss are all suitable substrates for these
lizards.
Environment:
Humidity should be maintained at 30%- 55% pending on
the species.
Diet:
These lizards will eat crickets, waxworms, and
mealworms. They will also enjoy small pieces of green leaf lettuce and sweet
fruit in a shallow dish. Fresh water should also be provided.
Maintenance:
The enclosure should be spot cleaned daily. A
thorough cleaning should be performed on a regular basis. A 5% bleach solution
is an excellent disinfectant. Be sure to thoroughly rinse the enclosure before
replacing the substrate and placing the lizard back in the enclosure. Hand
washing after handling the lizard or any cage furnishings is essential.
Other
references or recommended reading:
California
Zoological Supply 1996
Curly
tail Lizard Available on-line:
http://www.calzoo.com/html/curlytail.html
Kaplan,
Melissa. 2001
Curly-Tailed
Lizard Available Online:
http://www.anapsid.org/curlytailed.html
Shaffer,
Faith. 1996-1998
Curly
Stew and Curly Sue Available on-line:
http//:www,brazosport.cc.tx.us/`fshaffer/curlys.html
Petsmart.
Curly-tailed
Lizard Available Online:
http://www.petsmart.com/articles/article_3824.shtml