Lizards stand out as captivating pets, arguably leading the popularity charts in the reptile world. While some may initially hesitate due to common misconceptions about snakes, spiders, or frogs, the true allure of lizards lies in their sheer awesomeness. The diversity within the lizard family is astounding, offering a spectrum of behaviors and needs to match various pet owner preferences.
From burrowing experts to agile climbers and active explorers, lizards present a fascinating array of choices. Whether you’re a morning person or a night owl, there’s a lizard species with an activity schedule that fits your lifestyle. Some thrive in humid, water-rich environments, while others prefer drier setups. This incredible variety makes lizards a truly massive and diverse group in the pet world.
To simplify your introduction to these remarkable reptiles, we’ve curated a list of five exceptional lizards, perfect for beginners, including a special focus on a unique herbivorous gem.
1. Uromastyx: The Gentle Vegetarian of the Lizard World
If the idea of keeping live insects at home doesn’t appeal to you, then the uromastyx, often called Dabb lizard, frog-faced lizard, or spiny-tailed lizard, might be your ideal reptilian companion. This remarkable lizard stands out as a polite, primarily herbivorous lizard and a popular pet choice for those seeking a vegetarian reptile.
Unlike most of their lizard relatives, uromastyx lizards flourish on a diet primarily composed of seeds and salads. Their intelligence shines through in their interactions, and they generally become quite handleable, even if they exhibit a bit of youthful exuberance.
Care requirements and adult size can vary across uromastyx species. The impressive Egyptian uromastyx can reach up to 3 feet in length, while the Ornate uromastyx remains smaller, around 10–12 inches. For beginners, we often recommend the Moroccan uromastyx. Known for their docile nature and relatively straightforward care, they make an excellent introduction to herbivorous reptiles. If you have the opportunity to find an Omani or Ornate uromastyx, these species also offer rewarding pet experiences.
To ensure a thriving uromastyx, their enclosure should mimic their natural arid habitat. They require high temperatures, especially for basking, and a diet rich in leafy greens, vegetables, and seeds. Providing the correct UVB lighting is also crucial for their health and well-being. With their unique dietary needs and engaging personalities, uromastyx lizards offer a distinctive and rewarding experience for reptile enthusiasts.
2. Bearded Dragon: The Popular and Hardy Beginner Lizard
A true classic in the reptile-keeping hobby, the bearded dragon remains an undisputed favorite. While seasoned reptile keepers might consider them commonplace, their enduring popularity as the number one pet lizard in places like the UK is well-deserved. Bearded dragons achieve a manageable size, typically around 2 feet in total length, with approximately half of that being their tail.
Bearded dragons are celebrated for their engaging personalities when handled gently and consistently. Aggression or fear of handling is rarely observed, especially with regular interaction. Younger dragons may be a bit quick and skittish, but they usually mellow out as they mature, typically around 18–24 months old. If you’re uncertain about which lizard to choose as your first pet, the bearded dragon is a consistently reliable option for beginners.
Caring for bearded dragons involves replicating their love for sunshine. Providing UVB tube lighting and basking lamps during the day, along with a Ceramic Heat Emitter for nighttime warmth, creates an ideal environment. Dietarily, bearded dragons are omnivores. Offer a balanced diet of leafy greens, fruits, and invertebrates such as crickets to keep them healthy and thriving.
3. Crested Gecko: The Arboreal Climber with Unique Charm
Crested geckos occupy the opposite end of the enclosure spectrum compared to bearded dragons. While beardies prefer large, dry, and hot habitats, these smaller geckos thrive in warm, humid, and vertically oriented enclosures.
As our most sought-after climbing lizard species, crested geckos are remarkably easy to care for. They also become quite handleable with patience and gentle interaction. Crested geckos adapt beautifully to naturally planted terrariums, making them a visually stunning addition to any home.
A crested gecko housed in a 45 x 45 x 60 centimeter glass enclosure adorned with live jungle plants creates a captivating display. Although nocturnal, they still benefit from UVB and a top-mounted basking lamp during the day to establish a proper day-night cycle.
Maintaining a temperature gradient within their enclosure is important. Aim for one end to be around 24ºC (75ºF) and the cooler end at room temperature during the day. At night, a heat mat can provide supplemental warmth if needed. Their relatively simple care requirements solidify crested geckos as excellent beginner lizards, provided you are comfortable feeding them live insects, fruit, or commercially prepared gecko diet powder.
4. Leopard Gecko: The Ground-Dwelling Gecko with Easy Diet
If you’re drawn to ground-dwelling geckos but find the dietary demands of a bearded dragon daunting, a leopard gecko could be the perfect match. These charming, smooth-skinned lizards enjoy spending their days resting beneath bark decorations or within resin ornaments.
While primarily active during dusk and dawn (crepuscular), leopard geckos are known to become more active during daylight hours with regular, positive interactions. Their diet simplifies care considerably, as leopard geckos primarily eat crickets and occasional treats, eliminating the need for plant matter in their diet.
Leopard geckos also require less space than some other lizards, making a 3-foot enclosure an optimal size for a single adult. Their manageable size, easy diet, and docile nature contribute to their popularity as beginner-friendly reptiles.
5. Panther Chameleon: A Colorful and Engaging Option for the Prepared
Numerous chameleon species could grace this list, but the panther chameleon consistently captures our attention. They are slightly smaller than the more commonly kept Yemen chameleon, yet often exhibit a more approachable personality, adapting well to handling and frequent interaction.
Panther chameleons also require slightly less intense heat compared to Yemen chameleons, potentially simplifying temperature management within their enclosure. However, they are somewhat more sensitive to humidity levels, UVB lighting quality, and overall husbandry practices. Therefore, thorough preparation and ensuring a perfectly set-up enclosure from the outset are crucial.
When provided with meticulous care, the panther chameleon becomes a captivating and rewarding pet choice, showcasing stunning colors and engaging behaviors. While requiring a more dedicated approach than some other beginner lizards, the panther chameleon offers a unique and enriching reptile-keeping experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Lizards
Even with the rising popularity of lizards as pets, you might still have questions. Here are answers to some common inquiries about welcoming a lizard into your home.
What Lizards are Best Suited for Children?
Similar to beginner reptile enthusiasts, the best lizards for children are those known for their tolerance and enjoyment of handling. Species like crested geckos, leopard geckos, and even larger lizards such as bearded dragons are excellent choices.
Beyond lizards, other reptiles well-suited for children include blue tongue skinks, corn snakes, and ball pythons. However, adult supervision during handling is strongly recommended for children interacting with any reptile.
Which Pet Lizard is Known to be the Friendliest?
Bearded dragons often take the crown for the friendliest pet lizard. They can develop almost dog-like personalities, seemingly seeking out attention and even enjoying gentle scratches and treats when outside their enclosures.
Blue tongue skinks also rank high in friendliness among pet reptiles. Consistent and gentle handling from a young age helps them become accustomed to interaction. It’s important to remember that blue tongue skinks dislike being grabbed suddenly or from above, so approach them from the side and avoid sudden movements.
What are the Most Low-Maintenance Pet Lizards?
Several lizard species are considered low-maintenance and easy to care for, often overlapping with the best beginner lizard recommendations. These include bearded dragons, crested geckos, and leopard geckos. Despite the repetition, it’s a testament to their ease of care and suitability for those new to reptile keeping.
Explore Our Lizard Selection In-Store
While we’ve highlighted some fantastic beginner options, our personal favorite lizard leans towards the uromastyx. We also appreciate slightly more challenging species like giant day geckos, spiny-tailed monitors, or water dragons for experienced keepers.
Beyond the uromastyx, these more demanding species often require more intricate setups and specialized care. However, they can be incredibly rewarding pets for dedicated reptile enthusiasts. Owning lizards can be immensely enjoyable, but ensuring you provide the correct environment tailored to their specific species needs is paramount.
To see our current reptile availability, please check out our animal list. For any questions about this article or if you need further assistance, please contact us at 01604753823 or via email at [email protected].
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About Luke Tansley
Luke works within the customer service department at reptilecentre.com. At home he keeps hognose snakes, bearded dragons and kingsnakes.
