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Curly Tail Lizard

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

 

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