How to Care for an Eastern Collared Lizard

The eastern collared lizard, Crotaphytus collaris, is a species of reptile native to many parts of the southwestern United States, including Oklahoma and Texas. They are a medium-sized lizard and reach up to 14 inches in length as adults. Eastern collared lizards are kept in captivity by reptile enthusiasts. They do not require a lot of space compared to other common pet lizards, such as the Savannah monitor and iguana. Captive-bred eastern collared lizards typically do well in captivity as long as they are cared for properly.

Things You'll Need

  • Enclosure
  • Basking Light
  • Full Spectrum Lighting
  • Substrate
  • Hiding Places
  • Water Bowl
  • Food
  • Calcium
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Instructions

    • 1

      Provide a properly sized enclosure. Aquariums with screen lids work well; a 20- to 30-gallon aquarium is the recommended minimum for a single adult.

    • 2

      Provide a basking area. Eastern collared lizards need an area in their enclosure where the temperature reaches 95 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. A light bulb that is made for reptiles works well to provide a basking spot. Basking lights can be turned off at night. The remainder of their enclosure should be maintained at 75 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit in the daytime, with a five to 10 degree temperature drop at night.

    • 3

      Provide full spectrum UVB lighting. Full spectrum lighting is required for the eastern collared lizard to metabolize calcium properly.

    • 4

      Choose a suitable substrate. Eastern collared lizards do well on sand and small rocks.

    • 5

      Provide multiple hiding places. Eastern collared lizards are shy creatures and need secure areas in which to hide. Small caves made out of rocks work well and provide a naturalistic setting.

    • 6

      Provide a shallow bowl of drinking water. Some eastern collared lizards will not drink from a bowl, and will need to be watered by hand using a dropper.

    • 7

      Feed the eastern collared lizard a diet of crickets, wax worms and green vegetables. Babies should be fed daily, and adults should be fed three to four times per week. Food should be supplemented with a calcium product every other feeding.