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 recommend 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